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Lack of Sleep Can Harm a Child’s Health
A growing body of research shows
we need to keep a watchful eye
on kids’ shut-eye at every age.
Sleep helps kids solve problems, react
quickly, form memories, and learn. But
inadequate sleep can impact a child’s
physical well-being. The body releases
hormones during sleep that aid growth,
build muscles, and repair cells and tissues.
A study in Pediatrics confirmed that childhood sleep deficiencies may not only have immediate effects, but may be linked to future problems, including decreases in mental functioning that begin as early as adolescence. Increasing evidence also suggests that poor sleep contributes to major health problems, such as obesity.
Researchers stress that children’s sleep problems should not be ignored. While parents are often involved in the sleep schedules of young children, they tend to step back in high school. Because sleep is critical to health, however, parents should stay involved.
First, recognize the signs that your teenager isn’t getting enough sleep. According to researchers in the Journal of School Health, two significant signs are changes in mood and a slide in motivation. Sleepy teens also have trouble waking up in the morning, are irritable late in the day, sleep extra long on weekends, and doze off during the day.
Next, understand what’s keeping your teen awake. Many factors may play a role, and some — such as early school start times — you can’t control. But you can facilitate a good night’s sleep with these steps:
- Encourage a consistent sleep and wake schedule.
- Ban the use of computers, TVs, music players, and phones close to bedtime.
- Help your kid create a good sleep environment, a place that’s quiet and dark.
- Limit teens’ caffeine intake, especially energy drinks.
