The Importance of Sleep

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Elementary School Expert Advice from Barbara Potts

Question: Our 5-year-old goes to school all day. He goes to bed at 8 p.m. and get s up at 6 a.m. (too early for us). Is 10 hours of sleep enough? He is very active all day.

Answer: Most 5-year-olds require around 11 hours of sleep per night. You say that your son is active; does his class have a rest time at school, or does he rest when he is home? This may affect the amount of sleep he needs. Also think about weekend mornings -- does he still get up at the same time, even though he doesn't need to?

If you are concerned that he may not be getting enough rest, check with your pediatrician. Ask the teacher about his behavior at school as well; many times children who are tired show us by putting their heads down while at their seats, or by being argumentative and hard to get along with.

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Barbara Potts has worked as an elementary school counselor for many years. She has a BA in psychology from Wake Forest University, and an M.Ed. in Guidance and Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Please note: This "Expert Advice" area of FamilyEducation.com should be used for general information purposes only. Advice given here is not intended to provide a basis for action in particular circumstances without consideration by a competent professional. Before using this Expert Advice area, please review our General and Medical Disclaimers.

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