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The next time your kids demand to know why they can't stay up late, you can look to science for the answer. Researchers recently announced the results of a sleep-related study that involved roughly 8,000 four-year-olds. The parents revealed when their kids went to bed, and the children took tests that measured their language, reading, and math skills. Children who got less sleep at night had lower scores for reading, math, and the ability to understand spoken language. On the other hand, earlier bedtimes or having rules about bedtime were associated with better scores for many language, math, and reading skills. The lead researcher suggests that parents stick to an age-appropriate bedtime for preschoolers, and follow bedtime routines such as reading books or telling stories. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, toddlers need 12 to 14 hours of sleep each night, and preschoolers need 11 to 13 hours. Older schoolchildren need 10 to 11 hours. The academy recommends that parents take 10 to 30 minutes to help their children get ready to go to sleep. I'm Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV, with the news that doctors are reading; health news that matters to you.
