Jakarta, ThedailyID — Sleep plays an important role in children’s growth and daily activities. Getting enough rest can support attention, learning, memory, emotional regulation and overall quality of life.
However, children need different amounts of sleep depending on their age. The recommended duration also includes naps for younger children.
According to Kids Health, children who do not get enough sleep may become hyperactive. They may also struggle to focus, learn, manage their emotions and maintain a stable mood.
So, how much sleep does a child need? Here is the recommended duration based on six age groups.
1. Newborns, 0 to 3 months
Newborns generally need around 11 to 17 hours of sleep per day, according to Cleveland Clinic.
During the first few months, babies usually follow a simple cycle of sleeping, waking, feeding and other basic activities. Their sleep can remain spread across both day and night.
Pediatric sleep specialist Vaishal Shah said newborns have not yet developed a circadian rhythm that clearly distinguishes day from night.
By around three to six months, babies typically begin developing clearer differences between daytime and nighttime sleep.
2. Babies, 4 to 12 months
Babies aged 4 to 12 months are recommended to get 12 to 16 hours of sleep per day, including naps.
At this stage, babies usually begin recognizing the difference between day and night. Their sleep patterns can also become more regular.
Parents should count both nighttime and daytime sleep. Some babies may take one, two or even three naps during the day.
3. Toddlers, 12 to 24 months
Toddlers need around 11 to 14 hours of sleep per day, including naps.
As children grow, they usually sleep longer at night and nap less frequently during the day. A consistent routine can help them adjust to these changes.
Shah recommends gentle but firm boundaries around bedtime. Parents can also use consistent routines and positive reinforcement to help children get enough rest.
4. Preschoolers, 3 to 5 years
Children aged 3 to 5 should get 10 to 13 hours of sleep per day, including naps.
At this age, children gradually move away from daytime naps. Some may nap only occasionally during the transition.
Parents can provide quiet time in the afternoon even when children no longer sleep. If naps disappear, an earlier bedtime can help maintain their total sleep duration.
5. School-age children, 6 to 12 years
Children aged 6 to 12 need around 9 to 12 hours of sleep per day.
Adequate sleep can help children stay focused and engaged at school. On the other hand, insufficient sleep can make concentration and behavior more difficult.
Shah said children who do not get enough sleep may also struggle to keep up with schoolwork, sports and extracurricular activities.
6. Teenagers, 13 to 18 years
Teenagers are recommended to get 8 to 10 hours of sleep per day.
However, school, social activities and other commitments can reduce their sleeping time. As a result, teenagers may feel tired and less alert during the day.
Overall, sleep remains an important part of children’s development at every stage. The amount they need changes as they grow, so parents can adjust bedtime routines accordingly.
