Schools are back in session and for some students getting enough sleep is already a problem. Louisiana Department of Health Medical Director Dr. Martha Whyte says getting the proper amount of sleep helps students stay focused and improves academic performance.

"You don't absorb new information as well, you also can't pull information from your memory as well, " said Dr. Whyte.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends kids between the ages of 6 and 12 should get between 9 and 12 hours of sleep, 13 to 18-year-olds should get 8 to 10 hours.
Whyte encourages parents to set a regular bedtime and rise time, even on weekends.
Another suggestion is to dim lighting. Room lighting or light from electronics can keep you awake.
Finally, put in place a media or screen time curfew. Technology use may also contribute to late bedtimes. Whyte says banning the use of technology after a certain time is one suggestion or just remove the devices from the bedroom.

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