Did you know that…in the animal world, big animals sleep less, and small animals sleep more. Elephants and giraffes sleep only 2 to 4 hours a day. On the other hand, bats, opossums, and armadillos sleep 18 hours a day or more! (Microsoft ® Encarta ® 2009. © 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation )
Hmmm.. how about babies and kids?
How many hours do they need to sleep?
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends this sleeping guide which shows the number of hours the kids need to sleep to reach the optimal health. As shown, the number of hours varies for each stage of life.
If your kid is 8 years old, he needs to sleep 9 to 12 hours a day. Although your teenage daughter aged 16 may be taller than you and she looks mature enough to sleep late, remember that she still needs to sleep a total of 8 to 10 hours a day (including nap) for her to be as fit as a fiddle!
Image Source: American Academy of Sleep Medicine
http://sleepeducation.org/healthysleep/infographics/healthy-sleep-duration-infographic-2
How important is sleep?
According to Marc Weissbluth, writer of Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child, sleep is very important. As he emphasized in his book, “Sleep is the power source that keeps your mind alert and calm. Every night at at every nap, sleep recharges the brains’ batter. Sleeping well increases brainpower just as weight lifting builds stronger muscles, because sleeping well increases your attention span and allows you to be physically relaxed and mentally alert at the same time. Then you are at your personal best.” ( Michael J. Breus, PhD, “Good Sound Sleep for your Child”)
No wonder, some kids feel woozy and slow when they don’t get enough sleep. Some even get cranky and throw tanrums when feeling sleepy. It’s really important to sleep and take a short nap.
Another thing, our growing kids need to have healthy sleep habits! And the American Academy of Sleep Medicine has more interesting stuff about this! Wanna learn more about these healthy sleep habits? Click this link - http://sleepeducation.org/essentials-in-sleep/healthy-sleep-habits
Sleep is important indeed!! Thank you for this informative read! :)
ReplyDeleteYou are very much welcome Joyce! :)
DeleteGreat post. After reading this I now know that my daughter does not get enough sleep. It seems like the earlier I try to start her night sleeping, the later she wants to stay up.
ReplyDelete