The Average Bedtimes for Kids

Significance

• Hyperactivity and irritability are among the possible negative side effects when a child doesn't get enough sleep. Feeling wired or short-tempered in school can make following along in class more challenging and increases the risk of behavioral problems. Though a good night's sleep can't guarantee that your child will have a pleasurable and productive day in the classroom, it clearly provides a greater chance of academic success than being tired and cranky.

Common Obstacles

• Making sure your child gets enough rest sounds easy enough in theory. In reality, however, it can take planning and determination on your part. Kids ages 5 to 12 often have a full plate of demands such as sports, homework and social activities. Technological distractions can also hold up bedtime. School-age kids and preteens like to spend time surfing the internet, texting friends and watching television. Kids who watch TV close to bedtime are more likely to resist going to sleep, have problems falling asleep and tend to sleep for fewer hours, notes the NSF.

Recommendation

• Your child may try every trick in the book to postpone bedtime for as long as possible. For example, she may ask to read just a few more pages of a book or stay up a wee bit longer to watch the previews of the next episode of her favorite TV show. Setting clear limits, such as lights must be out by 8:45 p.m., sends the message that you mean business about bedtime. Reminding your child that bedtime is right around the corner helps mentally prepare her. Give your child a warning 30 minutes and 10 minutes before bedtime, advises KidsHealth.org, a website published by the Nemours Foundation.

Considerations

• Regular exercise is good for your child's overall health and well-being and can help him get the rest he needs. At least 60 minutes of physical activity such as running, swimming, skating, jumping rope, bicycling or participating in organized sports reduces stress and can help your child sleep better at night, explains "NIH MedlinePlus," an online magazine published by the National Institutes of Health and the Friends of the National Library of Medicine. A good night's sleep followed by a healthy breakfast, such as fiber-rich cereals and whole grain toast, is a good recipe for a productive day at school.