Elementary age children need ten to eleven hours of sleep per night. For first grade students, the need is close to eleven hours per night. Research shows school success, feelings of happiness, and good behavior all suffer when children do not have enough sleep.

Research also suggests that a regular bedtime makes a difference in learning. When bedtimes vary from night to night, students do not do as well in school even if they get enough sleep. Sleep researchers recommend that weekend bedtimes not be more than an hour later than weekday bedtimes.

Memories are not laid down in long-term memory when sleep is not sufficient. Help your child listen to what is taught, remember it, behave better in school, and feel happier about school by giving your child the gift of enough sleep every night.