Sleep is something we do every day and we often overlook its importance. In fact, when we have deadlines to meet or a laundry list of things to do in a day, sleep is usually the first thing sacrificed to make time for other things. However, a lack of sleep in children can lead to a bevy of physical and emotional problems that do not need to find their way to school, from absenteeism and decreased motivation to challenges with impulse control, depression/anxiety, and defiance to name just a few.

Sleep is to the brain what healthy eating is to bones and muscles; it keeps the brain strong. Sleep is restorative and can even help boost the immune system to fight against colds and flu. Adults who lack proper sleep can find themselves at risk for chronic conditions such as cardiovascular problems, obesity, and diabetes.

The recommended length of sleep each night for children and adults is as follows:

• Newborns and infants: 12-17 hours
• Ages 1-2: 11-14 hours
• Ages 3-5: 10-13 hours
• Ages 6-13: 9-11 hours
• Ages 14-17: 8-10 hoursAdults: 7-9 hours

Now turn off the TV, power off your phone, and get some shut eye!