How much sleep does my child need?
Children who get enough good quality sleep can concentrate, retain information, and manage their emotions better. Even more so than adults, sleep plays an important role in children’s overall physical and mental health. That is why many parents wonder: how much sleep does my child need? Read on to find the answer to this common question.
Children’s sleep requirements change as they age, with the recommended amount of sleep gradually decreasing as they get older. However, one factor remains constant – the quality of sleep is more important than quantity. And just like adults, some children need more sleep than others. The chart below illustrates the recommended hours of sleep for children, however, it’s important to remember that some deviations from this recommendation are common. If your child struggles to fall asleep and stay asleep, speak to your pediatrician or a sleep therapist to rule out any problems.
How much should my child sleep?
| Age Range | Recommended Hours Of Sleep | |
|
Newborn |
0-3 Months |
14-17 Hours |
| Infant | 4-11 Months |
12-15 Hours |
| Toddler | 1-2 Years |
11-14 Hours |
| Preschool | 3-5 Years |
10-13 Hours |
| School-Age | 9-13 Years |
9-11 Hours |
Source: Sleep Foundation How to know if my child is getting enough sleep Emerging evidence shows that poor quality sleep – caused by interrupted sleep during the night – can be associated with challenging behaviors, mood swings, poor attention span, and lower school performance. There are also links between poor sleep patterns and a range of childhood problems, from
depression to obesity.
Sleep hygiene – a healthy habit for all ages Good sleep hygiene means creating a consistent bedtime and daytime routine that promotes
better sleep.
Below are some sleep hygiene tips that are useful for adults and children alike:
● Make sleep a family priority and set a good example. This means not allowing your teen to stay up all night to cram for a test, but it also means no all-nighters for parents who want to finish a work project. Children learn by example!
● Create a regular bedtime and waking time.
● If your child still naps during the day, create a comfortable schedule, and keep naps short and limited to early afternoon.
● Start a bedtime routine at least an hour before bedtime. This could include an appropriate night-time snack, brushing teeth, having a bath, and reading a book.
● Keep your child active during the day, but avoid overscheduling your child – make sure some downtime is part of every day.
● Limit screen time, especially close to bedtime.
● Make the bedroom conducive to sleep – use block-out curtains to keep the room dark, and a night light if your child fears the dark.
Invest in a mattress that supports your child’s growing body For many young children, the reason they’re lacking sleep may be the poor quality of his/her bed or mattress. The Sealy Singles range helps children get the quality sleep they need for healthy physical and mental development. The Sealy team has developed beds made with the best criteria for optimal sleep, thanks to constant research and development, as well as collaboration and studies with orthopedic surgeons all over the world. The best mattress for kids is one that supports your child’s growing spine and is made with a breathable fabric. Choose the best quality mattress in your budget and think about longevity – A good quality mattress will last between eight and 10 years, if not longer.
Below are the top features of the Sealy Singles range:
● Allergen Protect TM – This material protects the mattress from common household allergies for a fresher sleep experience.
● Zone Support – A high-density foam area provides support in the center-third of the mattress (the middle), providing additional support to the heaviest part of the body. This feature is particularly important for older (and taller) children.
● Pressure Relieving Foams – StayTrue TM comfort layers make up the foundation of the mattress’ comfort layers, providing additional support for growing bones.
● Sealy Exclusive Double Offset Spring System – Originally designed by orthopedic doctors, these springs are specially designed so that each spring operates independently.
● Sealy Singles are available in Medium, Firm, and Plush comfort options.
Click here to find out more about the Sealy Singles range. Tip: A Sealy mattress cover over your child’s mattresses can protect it from stains and moisture and enables you to do a quick clean when the inevitable accidents happen. This also helps to maintain the firmness and integrity of your investment for years to come.