How much sleep does a 10–15-year-old need?
The ranges that widely used sleep guidance gives by age, and a simple way to see how your own child compares — with themselves.
By the ParentMind team3 min readListen to this article
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At a glance
- Who it is for
- Parents of school-age children and teens
- Key takeaways
- Sleep guidance gives a range by age, not one number.
- Work back from the school wake-up time.
- Compare your child with their own nights.
Sleep needs change as children grow. Widely used sleep guidance gives a range rather than one number, because children differ.
| Age | Hours of sleep | Asleep by, for a 6:30 wake-up |
|---|---|---|
| 6–12 years | 9–12 hours | 6:30–9:30 pm |
| 13–18 years | 8–10 hours | 8:30–10:30 pm |
Work back from the wake-up time
School sets the morning, so the evening is where there is room. If your 13-year-old wakes at 6:30 for school, 8 to 10 hours means being asleep somewhere between 8:30 and 10:30 the night before.
We compare the child to themselves, not to internet averages.
If your child seems very tired most days, snores loudly, or you are worried about their sleep for any reason, talk to a doctor.
This article is general information, not medical advice. For health worries, talk to a doctor; if someone is in danger, contact your local emergency number.
