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Is It OK to Stay Up Late During Breaks?

For many kids, school breaks are a time for family vacations, playing video games for hours—and staying up late.  

Although it can be fun to stay up late, experts say it’s important to get enough rest, even during breaks. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that fourth-graders get 9 to 12 hours of sleep each night. 

Many people think it’s OK for kids to go to bed later than normal when school is out, as long as they get some extra Zzz’s in the morning. They say kids should return to their regular sleep routine a few days before heading back to class. That way, their bodies will have time to readjust. 

But some experts argue that kids should keep the same sleep schedules year-round. They point out that kids who stay up too late may be moody or have trouble focusing the next day. Some studies also suggest that going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can benefit your health. 

Here’s what two of our readers think.

Getting to stay up late during breaks is a treat. It means we have more time to have fun with our friends, hang out with our family, and catch up on TV shows.

My regular bedtime is 8:30 p.m. When school is out, I get to stay up 30 minutes to an hour later. But then I sleep in the next morning to make sure I am caught up on my rest. Since there’s no school, kids who stay up late could take a nap during the day if they’re still tired.

Kids should stick to their usual sleep schedules during breaks. If they go to sleep later when school is not in session, it may be hard for them to get back on track when school starts up again. One time, I went to sleep late, but I also woke up late the next morning. And I missed the school bus! 

Plus, studies show that getting enough rest keeps your body and mind healthy. Without the proper amount of sleep, it can be difficult for kids to absorb what they’re learning in class.

What does your class think?

Is it OK to stay up late during breaks?

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