There’s an interesting debate going on in the parenting blogosphere after some doctors suggested that schools start later on in the day so teens can sleep in. Because we see it all the time, don’t we? Teens are always exhausted and they never seem to have enough sleep. But parents are divided on that idea. Some think well, schools shouldn’t start later, teens should just sleep earlier. Turn off that smartphone and laptop and such and go to bed. Others think hey, we can’t really deny the digital culture, so what’s the harm in starting schools late?
Parents probably can’t control what times school would start. What they can control, however, is how their kids sleep. You can make sure your teen is getting enough sleep (at least 9 hours) if you simply follow these tips…
Cut Back on Those Energy Drinks
First of all, energy drinks have nothing but unhealthy amounts of sugar are caffeine and they are horrible for your kids. They shouldn’t be drinking them for that reason alone. But while we’re on the subject of sleep, any form of caffeinated drinks interfere with their body’s natural sleeping patterns. So make sure your teen cuts back on them, especially during evenings/close to bedtime.
A Bit of Exercise
Nothing tires the system more than physical exertion. So, it is a nice idea to encourage your kids into playing sports, or taking up dancing, or hitting the gym. They’ll be healthier for it, and by the time they’re home and done with their homework, their bodies might well be as tired as their brains and they’ll fall asleep.
Plug Out During Bedtime
Probably the biggest culprit in your kid’s sleep deprivation are those gadgets. The reason they’re not sleeping is because they’re up all night trying to finish a video game, or marathoning an entire season of Naruto or some show or the other. Do them a favor and take their gadgets away an hour before bedtime. Let their minds relax and not worry about checking a Tweet under the covers when they should be relaxing.
Unscheduled Naps are the Devil
The sleep-whenever-you’re-tired rule mucks up your kid’s schedule. Not to mention, it is quite unhealthy. Long, unscheduled naps mean they’ll probably be well-rested when it is their actual bedtime. Or it has the opposite effect where they’re even groggier when they wake. They should nap when they get back from school, but it shouldn’t be longer than an hour.
Monitor Their Sleep Schedule
As the parent, you need to take your kid’s sleep habits very seriously. Sleep deprivation can lead to a deterioration of their health, both mental and physical. Yes, it will affect their performance at school, but it can also develop more problematic issues like anxiety or eating disorders. So don’t let their bad bedtime habits go by this easy.
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