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.

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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.

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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

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