Children's Health Official Shares Tips For Starting Good Routines As School Year Begins

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As many school districts across the state commence the 2023-24 school year, here is some advice for parents to help throughout the school year.

News 9 spoke with Dr. Michael Coffey, the director of general pediatrics at Bethany Children's Health Center.

Coffey said sleep scheduling requires multiple steps.

Dr. Coffey said children need 9-11 hours of sleep, including high school students, but 8-9 hours of sleep for older children is acceptable.

"I think we as human beings tend to take sleep for granted," Dr. Coffey said. "Without an adequate length of sleep at night, your child is going to have a tougher time at school."

Dr. Coffey said a lack of sleep can cause weight gain issues, behavioral issues and can make life at home more difficult, and that breakfast in the morning can also be important to your child's learning.