The following excerpt comes from Dr. Michelle Borba and is one of seven parenting tips to help with school success. Thank you to one of our staff members for sharing this (this is one of seven posts on this topic).
Make Sure Your Kids Get Enough Zzz’s
A lack of sleep can have a serious impact on children’s abilities to learn and perform at school. In fact, in one recent study, Tel Aviv University researchers found that missing just one hour of sleep can be enough to reduce a child’s cognitive abilities by almost two years the next day. For example, a sixth grader who loses precious zzz’s the night before a big test could end up performing at a fourth grade level.
Set a bedtime and keep to it every single night. Flashing images affect REM, so be sure to turn off the computer and television at least thirty minutes prior to bedtime. Take away the cell phones during nighttime hours—62% of kids admit they use it after the lights go out and their parents are clueless. Also, watch out for caffeinated sleep stealers like cold medications, chocolate, or energy-drinks.
Mr. Sean M. Martinson 