How much sleep does my child really need?
Does your nightly routine sometimes turn into a battle of wills and stubbornness?Are you worried your child might not be getting an adequate amount of sleep?Proper sleep will ensure your child is getting the rest needed to grow, learn and play. If your child seems tired, it’s likely they are.Generally, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends children get the following amounts of sleep on a regular basis, based on age and stage of development.
- Infants 4 to 12 months: 12 to 16 hours including naps
- Toddlers 1 to 2 years: 11 to 14 hours including naps
- Preschoolers 3 to 5 years: 10 to 13 hours including naps
- Grade-schoolers 6 to 12 years: 9 to 12 hours
- Teens 13 to 18 years: 8 to 10 hours
If you are wondering how this compares to adults, some working and single parents report they try to get by on five or even fewer hours of sleep each night. The CDC reports that one-third of American adults are not getting enough sleep. The AASM recommends adults ages 18 to 60 get at least seven hours per night.Regular sleep deprivation can lead to some difficult behaviors and health problems in your child, such as irritability, difficulty concentrating, hypertension, obesity, headaches and depression. Getting enough sleep can help boost the immune system, leading to better physical and mental health, as well as better school performance, behavior and memory.Sleep needs change over time and vary from one child to another. Don’t be afraid to bring up any sleep questions or concerns with your child’s doctor, who can help determine if lack of sleep or an underlying illness is affecting your child’s energy or behavior.Make sleep a priority in your home. Happy snoozing!