Consistent Bedtime Boosts Child Development

Filed in archive Consumer Alert , Kid's Health , Studies on June 8, 2010

© Raúl A.

To make my life easier as a parent, I have always tried to establish a consistent bed time routine for my young son. I know many parents would agree with me, that we can peacefully do stuff around the house once the kids are asleep in the bedrooms. Like cleaning up their mess for once, and some well-deserved me times.

Now experts are saying that establishing a consistent bedtime routine (and getting enough sleep) in your kids boosts their development. Preschool children get at least 11 hours of sleep each night, suggests the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

Young children score higher on tests of development, when:

1. they had a consistent bedtime at the age of 4
2. earlier bedtimes and parental rules where imposed about keeping bedtime routines

So...mom and dads! Better stick to that bedtime routine you have long established on your young kids.