Study reveals correlation between sleep and behavior in school-aged children

CINCINNATI - A lack of sleep could affect the behavior of elementary-aged children, according to a new study published this week in the journal Pediatrics.

The study examined 34 children age seven to 11. During one school week, half the students received an extra 27 minutes of sleep. The other half of children stayed up past their regular bedtime. Those school-age kids lost 54 minutes of slumber each evening.

Researchers found the kids who received less sleep not only seemed overly tired, but also appeared more spontaneous and irritable the than their well-rested counterparts, according to a story on CNN .

Sleep experts recommend children in elementary school generally need between 10 to 11 hours of sleep each night. Other tips for ensuring children get the recommended amount of rest include having a consistent bedtime and turning off the TV and other electronics.

To read the full CNN story, go to http://www.cnn.com/2012/10/15/health/kids-sleep/index.html.