From the Nurse's Office

"Sleep Matters!" 

While we adults may feel like we are constantly running low on sleep and still doing a pretty good job, it can't be stressed enough how important sleep is for growing brains. Children who are running low on sleep are much more likely to get sick, to experience difficulty focusing and learning well, have trouble coping with changes in schedules and getting along well with classmates.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 10-12 hours of sleep per night for 5 year olds and 9-12 hours for 6-12 year olds. Don't forget that noise from the house like televisions, adults or older children talking, and pets can interrupt the quality of sleep, even if the child remains in bed. Make sure that your child's room is dark and as quiet as possible.

 Finally, the AAP recommends turning off screens at least 30 minutes before the child goes to bed and removing those devices from the child's bedroom so that they are not a temptation.