Sleep
Why is Sleep Important?
- Sleep helps children stay healthier and do well in school.
- Rested children will be ready to eat breakfast.
- Sleep is vital for the mental and physical development of children and teens.
- A well-rested individual will be able stay awake in class, listen and pay attention.
- Insufficient rest causes irritability, increased stress, forgetfulness, learning difficulties and low motivation.
How Much Sleep is Enough?
Summary of new 2015 recommendations from the National Sleep Foundation:
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Newborns (0-3 months): Sleep range narrowed to 14-17 hours each day (previously it was 12-18)
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Infants (4-11 months): Sleep range widened two hours to 12-15 hours (previously it was 14-15)
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Toddlers (1-2 years): Sleep range widened by one hour to 11-14 hours (previously it was 12-14)
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Preschoolers (3-5): Sleep range widened by one hour to 10-13 hours (previously it was 11-13)
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School age children (6-13): Sleep range widened by one hour to 9-11 hours (previously it was 10-11)
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Teenagers (14-17): Sleep range widened by one hour to 8-10 hours (previously it was 8.5-9.5)
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Younger adults (18-25): Sleep range is 7-9 hours (new age category)
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Adults (26-64): Sleep range did not change and remains 7-9 hours
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Older adults (65+): Sleep range is 7-8 hours (new age category)