Family Events,
Current Issue
Special Events

Subscriptions,
About, Advertising Business Opportunities,
e-Newsletter,
PPA Members

Is Your Child Hyper Due to Lack of Sleep?

According to the National Institutes of Health, a tired child is more prone to injury, poor school performance and crankiness. And, children with chronic sleep deprivation may not seem tired but may appear to be overactive. Poor sleep habits for kids carry over to poor health for adults that cause heart ailments, respiratory problems and obesity.

Children 7 to 11 years of age require at least nine hours of sleep each night to do their best in school, sports and other related activities. Without proper sleep, kids have difficulty focusing their attention during class, get irritable and frustrated easily and lose control of their emotions.

Besides turning off the television and getting your kids off the Internet or phone, here are some tips for healthy sleep from the National Institutes of Health:

• Stick to a regular bedtime each night.
• Create a relaxing routine like reading a book or a nice warm bath before bed.
• Make playtime relaxing after dinner.
• Don't serve a big meal close to bedtime.
• Keep the bedroom dark and at a comfortable temperature.