Your tween may be sleeping more due to significant physical changes associated with puberty, which often leads to fatigue.
Understanding Increased Sleep Needs in Tweens
Tweens, typically aged 10-12, are undergoing significant physical, hormonal, and emotional changes. The rapid growth and development during this stage can make them feel tired. According to experts, the significant physical changes of puberty are known to result in fatigue. It's not unusual for tweens to need more sleep than younger children or adults.
Causes of Increased Sleepiness:
- Physical Changes: Puberty involves rapid growth spurts, and these dramatic changes use a lot of energy, leading to fatigue.
- Hormonal Shifts: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to increased tiredness.
- Emotional Stress: The emotional rollercoaster tweens experience can also contribute to fatigue.
- Activity Levels: Changes in physical activity, such as engaging in more sports or being more sedentary, can affect sleep patterns.
When to Be Concerned:
While increased sleepiness is often normal during tween years, it's also important to be aware that excessive tiredness can sometimes be a sign that something's wrong.
- Underlying Health Issues: If your tween is excessively tired, it may be worthwhile checking with a doctor to rule out conditions like anemia or thyroid problems.
What to Do?
Here are some practical insights to help support your tween:
- Ensure adequate sleep: Aim for 9-11 hours of sleep each night.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule: Keeping the same bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends, can regulate their body clock.
- Healthy Diet: Encourage a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support energy levels.
- Regular Exercise: Encourage regular physical activity, but avoid strenuous exercise close to bedtime.
- Limit screen time before bed: Avoid electronics in the hour before sleep, as the blue light can interfere with sleep patterns.
It is important to monitor their sleep patterns and overall well-being. If you suspect the increased sleep is beyond normal fatigue associated with puberty, consult a healthcare professional.
