Lack of regular bedtime may affect kids’ learning skills

Do you give in when your kids ask to delay their bedtime? Not going to bed at the same time every night may be harmful to the developing brain, new research suggests. Amanda Sacker, author of the study, says, “Early child development has profound influences on health and well-being across the life course. Therefore, reduced or disrupted sleep–especially if it occurs at key times in development–could have important impacts on health throughout life.” The study found that 3-year-olds who had the most irregular bed times  also had lower scores in math, reading and spacial awareness. The National Sleep Foundation recommends 11 to 13 hours of sleep for preschoolers ages 3 to 5, and 10 to 11 hours of sleep for children up to the age of 12. Enforcing a regular bedtime for your kids helps to ensure a good night’s sleep and promotes lifelong health and well-being.

CBS News, 7/9/13