Sleep Plays Critical Role in Student Wellness, Success
Adequate sleep and rest are essential for overall health and wellbeing at every age. Research continues to show that sleep promotes memory, alertness and performance, as well as decreases behavioral issues and the likelihood of being overweight or obese.
As another academic year begins for local students, VCHS's Mark Deaton, LRCP, in line with the National Sleep Foundation, recommends the following hours of sleep each day, by age:
Newborns (0-3 months): 14-17 hours
Infants (4-11 months): 12-15 hours
Toddlers (1-2 years): 11-14 hours
Preschoolers (3-5): 10-13 hours
School-age children (6-13): 9-11 hours
Teenagers (14-17): 8-10 hours
Younger adults (18-25):7-9 hours
Adults (26-64): 7-9 hours
Older adults (65+): 7-8 hours
To increase the likelihood of restful nights, easier mornings and a successful, healthy year, bedtime routines are important to establish. For children, this can include taking a bath, brushing teeth, reading a story, making sure the room is quiet and going to bed at the same time every night. Many of these same recommendations apply to older students as well. Additionally, older students should avoid consuming caffeine later in the afternoon and evening and should keep electronics out of the bedroom.
For more information about the importance of sleep or about sleep disorders and the VCHS Sleep Program, call 308.728.4309, or schedule an appointment with your VCHS primary care provider at a VCHS Medical Clinic at 308.728.4202.
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