Sleep Tips

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.

Sleep tips

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