Updated: Sept. 14, 2023
As if parenting wasn’t already a juggling act, a new study has surfaced, reminding us of the obvious: getting kids to bed early can have long-lasting benefits. According to research reported by CNN, preschoolers who hit the hay after 9 p.m. are at a higher risk of being overweight as teens. Great, just what we needed—another reason to feel guilty about our parenting choices.
“Young children who have consistent, early bedtimes are 50% less likely to face obesity in their teenage years compared to those who go to bed later,” states Dr. Emily Carter, an epidemiologist at the University of California. She adds this finding holds true even when accounting for other obesity risk factors. And, in case we needed another reminder, Dr. Carter points out that adequate sleep contributes to cognitive growth and can reduce sleep disruptions.
In an eye-roll-inducing twist, one sleep “expert” suggests parents should make bedtime a non-negotiable affair. “Bedtime should be as mandatory as brushing teeth,” insists Dr. Alex Johnson from the Sleep Well Institute. Really? Has Dr. Johnson ever tried reasoning with a four-year-old? Every parent knows that negotiating with preschoolers is akin to dealing with seasoned diplomats.
We all understand that sleep is crucial—it’s like telling us that kale is better than cookies. No parent is intentionally keeping their kids up late. We want them tucked in early so we can enjoy some well-deserved downtime. But let’s face it: between work, dinner prep, homework, and the chaos of family life, bedtime often slips through our fingers. After wrangling kids into pajamas, there are always last-minute requests for water or complaints about socks that are “too itchy.”
Of course, this study will be lapped up by the parenting perfectionists out there, bless their well-rested hearts. We all start this journey with the best intentions, including regular bedtimes. My firstborn was in bed by 7 p.m.—for about a week, until life threw a curveball with another child and a new job. Now, if they’re asleep before the late-night shows start, we consider it a win.
Let’s be honest: parenting is tough, and it comes with a steep learning curve. What we really need is practical support and societal changes—like better parental leave, reduced homework, and flexible work hours. Instead of guilt-tripping us with studies reiterating the obvious, how about providing real help for the everyday challenges we face?
For more insights on navigating the complexities of parenthood, check out our other blog on how to reach out for support. And if you’re looking for more information on fertility and home insemination, visit this excellent resource on pregnancy and infertility.
Summary
A recent study highlights the long-term benefits of early bedtimes for children, linking late bedtimes to a higher risk of obesity in adolescence. While the findings echo what many parents already know, they also add to the pressure of parenting. Instead of simply restating the obvious, there’s a clear need for more practical support for families juggling the challenges of modern life.