Early Wake-Up Calls Impacting Schoolchildren’s Health and Academic Performance, Experts Warn

According to Dr. Sarah Rizk Beshara, a paediatrics specialist at Fakeeh University Hospital in Dubai, the adverse effects of insufficient sleep are increasingly evident among young students

In a growing concern for parents and educators, many schoolchildren are struggling with sleep deprivation due to early wake-up times and long commutes to school.

This issue, highlighted by recent statements from medical professionals, is taking a toll on the physical and mental well-being of students and affecting their academic performance.

Advertisement

According to Dr. Sarah Rizk Beshara, a paediatrics specialist at Fakeeh University Hospital in Dubai, the adverse effects of insufficient sleep are increasingly evident among young students.

“Sleep deprivation can have significant impacts on both the physical and mental health of students. That’s why as a paediatrician, I wanted to raise awareness on improving sleeping habits,” Dr. Beshara emphasized.

The pressure to navigate peak-hour traffic and reach school on time is forcing many children to wake up hours before their peers. This early start disrupts their sleep patterns, leading to inadequate rest.

Dr. Beshara points out that the minimum recommended amount of sleep for school-aged children is between 8 to 9 hours per night. This amount of sleep is crucial for the body and mind to rest and recover, yet many students are not meeting this guideline due to early morning routines.

The consequences of sleep deprivation are manifold. Physically, children may experience fatigue, weakened immune systems, and an increased risk of obesity.

Mentally, lack of sleep can lead to difficulties in concentration, memory problems, and heightened stress levels.

Advertisement

The impact on academic performance is also notable; studies have shown that students who are sleep-deprived tend to have lower grades and struggle with cognitive tasks compared to their well-rested peers.

The problem is exacerbated in urban areas where traffic congestion is a daily challenge. Students often face lengthy commutes, which forces them to wake up early, further compromising their sleep. This routine not only affects their health but also their ability to engage effectively in their studies.

Educational experts and parents alike are calling for changes to alleviate the burden on students. Suggestions include adjusting school start times to better align with students’ natural sleep cycles and exploring alternative transportation options to reduce commute times.

However, implementing such changes requires collaboration between educational authorities, parents, and local governments.

As the debate continues, Dr. Beshara’s advice remains clear: prioritizing adequate sleep is essential for children’s health and academic success.

Parents are encouraged to monitor their children’s sleep patterns and make necessary adjustments to ensure they meet the recommended hours of rest.

The ongoing conversation around sleep deprivation underscores the need for a holistic approach to student well-being, where sleep health is given as much attention as academic achievement.

With increasing awareness, it is hoped that both immediate and long-term solutions will emerge to support the health and academic performance of students.

In summary, the early wake-up calls faced by many schoolchildren are not merely an inconvenience but a significant issue impacting their overall health and academic success.

As experts like Dr. Beshara continue to advocate for improved sleeping habits, it is clear that a collective effort is required to address this pressing concern.

 

Tariq Saeed

Read More

UAE: 8,428 people arrested in drug-related cases in 2021 – Reports

More than 8000 people were arrested in the United Arab Emirates for crimes related to drugs last year, which is an increase of around 20.8% compared to 6,973 people captured in 2020, per a new report from the Ministry of Interior (MoI).

Citizenship by investment programme of Saint Lucia allows an investor to travel 70% of world

Saint Lucia, which is a small island nation located in the eastern Caribbean Sea on the boundary with the Atlantic Ocean, is a perfect location to be called a second home. The island nation is not only famous for its mesmerizing beauty and climatic conditions but also as it lets an individual thrive in its business globally.

UAE: Dust warning issued in some areas by forecasters

Forecasters have passed a dust warning, which will reduce visibility in some regions on Tuesday, 24 May, in the United Arab Emirates.

Recent

Saint Lucia: PM Pierre joins 125th anniversary of Minor Basilica Church

Philip J Pierre, The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, attended the 125th Anniversary event of the church, Minor Basilica and the Parish Feast. This was held at Minor Basilica church Of the Immaculate Conception Under the theme of "Nou Tout Ansanm ".

Cricket Fever Sweeps Dubai: Top Spots to Watch the India-Pakistan Clash on June 9

Cricket enthusiasts seeking a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere should head to TJ's in Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT). Known for its casual ambiance, TJ's provides the perfect setting to immerse yourself in the thrill of the game

1 year deadline for Pakistan to return $3 billion to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia: Pakistan has to return a total of $3 billion to the Islamic state of Saudi Arabia in the tenure of 1 year...
admin

Too Many Requests