How do I know if my child is getting enough sleep?

The amount of sleep a child needs varies depending on the individual and certain factors, including the age of the child. Following are some general guidelines:

3-6 Years Old: 10 - 12 hours per day are needed.

Children at this age typically go to bed between 7 and 9 p.m. and wake up around 6 and 8 a.m., just as they did when they were younger. At 3, most children are still napping while at 5, most are not. Naps gradually become shorter as well. New sleep problems do not usually develop after 3 years of age.

7-12 Years Old: 10 - 11 hours per day is needed.

At these ages, with social, school, and family activities, bedtimes gradually become later and later, with most 12-years-olds going to bed at about 9 p.m. There is still a wide range of bedtimes, from 7:30 to 10 p.m., as well as total sleep times, from 9 to 12 hours, although the average is only about 9 hours.

*This information was taken from www.webmd.com on 3/28/11.*

In the spring, with dark mornings and daylight lasting later into the evening, it can be difficult to keep kids on a regular sleep schedule.  It is important for their growth, health,  and learning to do the best we can to make sure they are getting the rest they need.