New evidence shows that children with routine early bedtimes took less time to fall asleep and stayed asleep longer than children with inconsistent bedtimes. It also finds that pre-school aged children who have regular bedtimes scored higher on language, literacy and math skills.
The study conducted by SRI International involved about 8,000 children.
Sleep experts say young children should get a minimum eleven hours a sleep a night. And, they say, a good routine can include telling stories or reading books before bed at the same time every night.
