Why Do I Have a Bedtime?

Have you ever wondered why your parents tuck you into bed each night? Wouldn’t it be more fun if you could just play as late as you want? While staying up late might sound exciting, you need sleep for some very important reasons.

Feeling Sleepy

Sleep is how our bodies recharge after the activities of the day. We get tired around our bedtimes because of the circadian (sir-KAY-dee-en) rhythm that God gave us. The circadian rhythm is like an internal clock that knows when it’s time to fall asleep and wake up. By sensing the light around you, your brain detects if it is night. The light from screens can mess up this rhythm, so it’s a good idea to stay away from devices for at least an hour before bed.

Don’t doze off now—let’s learn about the incredible things that happen when you are sleeping!

Benefits of Sleep

God specially designed kids to need more sleep than adults because sleep helps you grow and develop. As you get older, the amount of sleep you need changes. Kids need about 9 to 12 hours of sleep every night, while adults need only 7 to 9 hours.

Sleep is important. When you curl up under your covers, your brain sorts through memories and information, linking events together. The neurons (brain cells) build stronger connections when you are asleep, which helps you to remember things better. Your brain also releases growth hormones while you are dozing. Sleep actually helps every area of your body, from your brain all the way to your immune system (the system that fights sickness).

You need to get enough sleep at night because of how fast you are growing. Without enough rest, your brain is not ready to go when you wake up. You will feel groggy and easily irritated. You might also feel super wiggly, hyper, or sleepy.

But not getting enough sleep doesn’t only affect the way you feel—it actually impacts your brain. Since it is easier to learn and remember things when you get enough sleep, sticking to your bedtime could even help you with schoolwork!

God gave you an amazing, beautifully designed body. Not only does sleep rest your body, but it boosts your brain and helps you be ready for the day. Because of God’s good design for your growth, you need extra sleep as a kid because you are doing so much learning and growing every day! When the clock is nearing your bedtime tonight, take a moment to thank God for the incredible gift of sleep.

Do you have a question about God’s Word or his world that you want us to answer? Is there a topic you want to learn more about? Ask your parents to help you submit your question today. Watch for our answer here on the blog or in Kids Answers magazine. We’d love to hear from you!