How much sleep should my child get? This is a question that many parents ask, and it can be difficult to determine the answer. The amount of sleep a child needs varies depending on their age.
We'll provide a quick guide on how much sleep children should get at different stages in life. We will also discuss the importance of having enough sleep for your child, and how lack of sleep can affect their development.
Infants (0-12 months)
Infants should get between 12 and 16 hours of sleep a day, including both naps and nighttime sleep. Most infants require between 14 and 15 hours of sleep a day. Newborns tend to sleep more than older infants, and will usually take around 2-4 hours of naps during the day.
For infants, having the right amount of sleep can help with their development, growth, and overall health. Apart from that, infants who get enough sleep are usually happier and more content.
Lack of sleep may lead to problems such as irritability, poor feeding, and difficulty sleeping through the night. When an infant lacks sleep, they may have a hard time regulating their emotions. Moreover, they may have difficulty reaching milestones and may be prone to developing health problems later in life.
Toddlers (12-36 months)
Toddlers need between 11 and 14 hours of sleep a day. This includes both naps and nighttime sleep. Toddlers usually take one or two naps during the day, each lasting around 1-2 hours.
As toddlers grow, they need less sleep. However, it is still important for them to get enough sleep. By the time they reach three years old, most toddlers only require one nap during the day. Like infants, toddlers who get enough sleep tend to be happier and more content. They are also able to focus and pay more attention.
When toddlers don’t get enough sleep, they can become irritable and grumpy. They may also have a hard time paying attention in school and be prone to getting sick. They may also have difficulty falling asleep at night.
Preschoolers (36 months-elementary school)
Preschoolers need between 10 and 12 hours of sleep daily. This includes both naps and nighttime sleep. Preschoolers usually take one nap during the day, which lasts around 1-2 hours. Most elementary school-aged children do not take naps. However, some may still need them. If your child is having trouble sleeping at night or seems tired during the day, they may benefit from taking a nap.
When preschoolers get enough sleep, they are more likely to have a positive outlook and be in a good mood. Getting enough sleep can also help preschoolers stay active and have a healthy weight.
Not getting enough sleep may lead to problems such as difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and emotional outbursts. They may also be more likely to get sick and have trouble doing well in school.
School-aged Children (elementary school-adolescence)
School-aged children need between nine and 12 hours of sleep a day, including naps and nighttime sleep. Most school-aged children do not take naps, but some may still require them. School-aged children usually go to bed around the same time every night and wake up around the same time every morning. This helps them get into a routine and ensures they get enough sleep.
When school-aged children get enough sleep, they are more likely to be in a positive mood and good frame of mind. They are also more likely to do well in school and get better grades. They are also less likely to get sick.
Lack of sleep at this age may lead to problems such as being cranky, hyperactivity and having a hard time paying attention. It may also lead to problems in school, such as poor grades and difficulty concentrating. Additionally, school-aged children who don’t get enough sleep may be more likely to struggle with their weight.
It's important that your child gets enough sleep, especially in the early stages of their life as this affects their development, mood and behavior, and overall health not only in the present but also in the future. Make sure to create a bedtime routine for your child and stick to it as much as possible to ensure they get the right amount of sleep nightly.
Introducing Snorble®: The Intelligent Sleep Companion For Kids
Snorble is a smart companion that can help your child get the right amount of sleep. Snorble tracks your child’s sleep and provides feedback on how well they are sleeping. They also offer tips to help them get better sleep. With Snorble, your family can experience a better bedtime.
Photo by Minnie Zhou on Unsplash
