Sleep deprived children show symptoms of ADHD

Have you ever wondered why some children are so much more hyperactive than others?

The BBC News reported that children whose average sleep duration was shorter than 7.7 hours had a higher hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour score. (Please note: the 7.7 hours refers to time in actual sleep. Bear in mind, your child will need more time in bed to take into account bedtime reading and staying awake.)

What does that mean to you? Sleep deprived adults face problems of concentration lapses and being less emotionally stable. However the consequences on a child’s life and their future are dire. It means your child has a reduced ability to concentrate at school and a higher tendency to be behaviourally challenged.

Clearly, this will affect your child’s ability to realise their academic potential, not to mention be more susceptible to be bullied or become a bully. Controversial, I know. However, given the record numbers of children being bullied at school and 40% of teachers being subjugated to student bullying, this is a serious matter that teaching professionals are having a tough time with.

Prevention is better than cure. Ensuring your child gets a good night’s sleep allows them to fully recuperate for a productive day ahead.

Harun Rabbani