Sleep Disorders in Children
The Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine team at Children's Mercy provides specialty services to help kids overcome sleep disorders. Contact our sleep specialists at (816) 983-6490.
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Help your kids do their best by helping them get the right amount of sleep. A lack of sleep can leave kids feeling cranky, clumsy, forgetful, sluggish, or even hyperactive. Follow these simple tips to help your kids get a good night's sleep.
- Allow time for plenty of exercise during the daytime – at least one hour of physical activity a day
- Encourage kids to go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day
- Avoid caffeinated drinks, especially after 2 p.m.
- Turn off television, video games, cell phones and other screens at least 1-2 hours before bedtime
Why Sleep is Important for Kids
- Helps them feel prepared for the next day
- Helps their tissues, muscles and bones grow
- Helps keep their immune systems healthy (which helps to fight illness)
- Allows their brains to sort and store information
- Makes it easier for them to think, focus, remember and solve problems
- Restores their energy to be active during the day
Sleep Recommendations by Age
- 3-5 year olds need 11-13 hours of sleep
- 5-12 year olds need 10-11 hours of sleep
- 13-17 year olds need 9-10 hours of sleep