"Not Enough Sleep = Not Enough Learning"
Over the last few years, researchers have proven what teachers have known for many years - when children don’t get enough sleep, their school performance suffers. They have problems with memory, productivity, attention span and overall learning. Behavior problems become more common because tired children tend to be irritable and over-reactive.
Unfortunately, more and more parents are allowing their children to stay up late. In some cases, it is because the parents work late and want to enjoy some time with their children in the evening. This reason is certainly understandable. However, many other parents allow their children to stay up late because the parents don’t want the "hassle" of putting their kids to bed. It’s easier to wait until the children are falling asleep in front of the television and then put them to bed. This way, the children don’t have the energy to make a big fuss. Some parents go so far as to allow their children to decide their own bedtime. This is why virtually every classroom has a student who can describe what was on the late show. (Ask any teacher. You will be shocked.)
Children need sleep, usually 8-10 hours depending upon their age. It is important to insist they go to bed at a reasonable time. If you make bedtime a routine (so it happens at the same time every night), you can avoid most arguments and confrontations. Even if your children are annoyed, don’t back away from establishing an appropriate bedtime. After all, parenting isn’t a popularity contest.
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