Sleep deprivation causes a number health issues and other issues, such as follows: o Decreases motivation, ability to concentrate or reason, speed and accuracy of information processing, memory, motor control, and emotion control. o Increases restlessness, irritability, illness, injuries, impulsivity, mistakes, and tardiness.

Studies show that 37% of children, kindergarten through fourth grade, suffer from at least one sleep-related problem. If your child experiences any of these sleep problems consult with your child’s physician.

Sleep affects the health and well-being of children and plays a key role in preventing disease and injury, stability of mood, and ability to learn. Unfortunately, children often do not get adequate sleep on a regular basis. According to recently updated recommendations from the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), the number of hours sleep children and adolescents need is as follows:

o Toddlers (1-2 years): 11-14 hours o Preschoolers (3-5 years): 10-13 hours o School-age (6-13 years): 9-11 hours o Teenagers (14-17 years): 8-10 hours

Sleep Recommendations

Sleep Patterns & Requirements for Elementary Students Effects of Sleep Deprivation

Enforce a consistent sleep schedule. As it gets closer to bedtime, quiet down the house activities. Avoid violent television shows before bed that may frighten your child. Establish an electronic curfew of at least 30 minutes prior to bedtime. Store electronics outside of your child’s bedroom. Avoid using an early bedtime as a punishment. Observe your child to see if they are tired throughout the day, if they are, consider

adjusting their bedtime in increments of 15 minutes earlier until you notice improvements.

How Can Parents Help? Consider these Tips:

Useful Resources The National Sleep

Foundation o Sleepfoundation.org

KidsHealth o Kidshealth.org

Sleep For Kids o sleepforkids.org