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.