Book 10, Question 54
Why Do Growing Kids Need More Hours of Sleep than Adults?
Growing kids need more hours of sleep than adults because their bodies and brains are growing fast! Sleep helps with growth, memory, and mood. Many school-age kids need around 9 to 12 hours a night, and a doctor can answer questions about your sleep.
More fun facts
- Kids' bodies grow and change quickly, so they need more sleep than adults.
- On average, children need 9 to 13 hours of sleep, while adults need 7 to 9.
- Toddlers and babies need even more, about 12 to 17 hours.
- Teenagers need about nine hours a night, but many get closer to seven.
- Without enough rest, your brain may find it hard to concentrate, and you might forget things or make mistakes.
- Your brain has a body clock that tells you when to feel awake and when to feel sleepy.
Sources: BBC, BBC, Scientific American
Questions kids ask
How can I tell if I need more sleep?
Feeling tired, stressed or cranky when you wake up can be a sign you did not sleep enough.