It may seem like strange advice, but should you let your teen sleep in? A growing body of research evidence suggests that this might actually be good for teens. They may be more attentive and productive in school and the rates of absenteeism may actually drop. Why do teens respond so well to sleeping in?
Unique Characteristics of Teen Sleep
Sleep during adolescence is unique. As the brain matures in the teenage years, we actually tend to require a considerable amount of sleep. (Teens need an average of 9 hours of sleep per night.) Moreover, the timing of this sleep tends to be delayed. If left to their own preferences, many teens often go to bed and wake later. Any parent who has seen their teen sleep in past noon can readily attest to this.
This delayed sleep period is likely due to their circadian rhythms. As we mature, the desire for sleep (called sleep drive) and wakefulness lessens and our circadian cycle becomes longer. During the transition period of adolescence, as with many things in this awkward phase, difficulties may occur. There may be trouble going to sleep (insomnia), or excessive daytime sleepiness in the morning. The combination of the two is called delayed sleep phase syndrome. The desired timing of sleep may conflict with social obligations.
Social Consequences and Results of Delayed School Start Times
As a result of their desired sleep preferences, teens who stay up late and sleep in often struggle with missing morning classes and accumulating school absences. When they do attend, they may fall asleep during class or have other behavioral problems. Poor concentration may lead to failing grades. In younger children, sleep problems may manifest as inattention and hyperactivity.
School districts that have delayed their start times have noticed positive effects. Students are shown to have improved attendance and are able to perform better. Extending this practice to other schools may help our teenagers to do their best by compensating for changes in their sleep patterns.
Sources:
Durmer, JS and Chervin, RD. "Pediatric sleep medicine." Continuum. Neurol 2007;13(3):153-200.
