With the news that schools are reopening, unsurprisingly, parents up and down the country are wondering how they are going to get their teens’ sleep routines back in check.
From going to bed late to sleeping in all morning, teenagers sleep schedules have been knocked out of line this past few months. It’s thought the average time that young people sleep is about 7 hours a night, well below what they should be.
So, how much sleep do teens need?
Teenagers and Sleep
Young people should aim to get 8-9 hours of sleep per night.
Too much screen time, particularly at night, is a significant factor affecting teens’ sleep. Whether it’s mobile phones, computer screens or TVs, the light from screens interferes with sleep.
Not only that, but the temptation to talk well into the night with friends on social media is ever-present when the phone is beside the bed.
But to be fair, it’s not always our young people’s fault that they’re not getting the required shuteye. The Sleep Council reminds us that sleep issues can develop because of physical, mental and social factors in a young person’s life. Exams stress, relationships, social and work activities can all intrude on a teen’s sleep.
Not only that, but teenagers’ natural sleeping cycle (circadian rhythm) could be out of sync, which makes it more difficult for them to fall asleep and wake early. And, hands up how many of our young people are still sleeping in their childhood bed? A small bed and uncomfortable mattress could be the root cause of many a sleepless night.
Sleep Tips For Teens
Good quality sleep is essential for a teenager’s growth and development. Evidence suggests that prolonged lack of sleep can affect a person’s mental and physical health and wellbeing, and it’s no different for young people.
It’s important that our teens get time to switch off to help them relax and prepare for sleep. Establishing a good sleep routine will also help. Limiting screen time, encouraging a gadget-free bedroom and setting aside time to unwind will all help your young adult reset their body clock.
Caffeinated and fizzy drinks should be avoided late at night. A growing teen also means more need to spread out. Best to check that your teenage child’s bed is big enough for them and providing the right levels of comfort and support.
Encourage your child to take regular exercise. Even a small amount of daily exercise can help refresh the body and mind, so aim to build in a little into your daily routine.
Watch The Sleep Council’s video which is packed with lots of helpful sleep advice for teenagers.
Bed Buying Advice
If your child has outgrown their existing bed, why not give us a call or visit in store to see the wide selection of beds we have available. From futons and daybeds to small double beds and double bed frames, we’ve something to suit every taste.
Our showroom is ideally located just off the A28 between the cities of Armagh and Newry; 30 minutes from Lisburn, 45 from Belfast, and an hour from Dublin and Derry~Londonderry.
We’re also within easy reach of Banbridge, Portadown, Dundalk, Drogheda and Dungannon. We’ve good stock availability and we carry stock for immediate delivery or collection. Our Free Delivery zone has recently been extended to take in Counties Cavan and Meath, in addition to Louth, Monaghan, Dublin and we deliver throughout Northern Ireland. With additional discounts for Multibuy and our Price Promise, you can be sure you’re getting a great deal. Call or Email today, because we appreciate your business!