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In a world filled with growing academic pressures, social media scrolls, and packed extracurricular schedules, sleep is often the first thing teens sacrifice. But for adolescents, good sleep isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have for mental and physical well-being.
Why Sleep Matters for Teens
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that teenagers get 8–10 hours of sleep each night. Yet, studies show that most high school students average far less. Lack of sleep is linked to:- Increased anxiety and depression
- Difficulty concentrating and lower academic performance
- Weakened immune system
- Greater risk of injury or accidents
Getting enough rest helps regulate mood, boost memory and learning, and supports the physical growth and development that continues well into the teen years.
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The Case for Later School Start Times
Some forward-thinking school districts have taken a bold step: pushing back school start times to better align with adolescent sleep cycles. Teens naturally tend to fall asleep later and wake up later due to shifts in their biological clocks. Early start times often force them to wake up before they’ve had enough rest.
Research has shown that later start times can lead to:
- Improved attendance and graduation rates
- Better academic outcomes
- Fewer reports of student fatigue and burnout
- Positive impacts on student mental health
These adjustments can be powerful examples of how small policy changes can better support students' overall well-being.
Supporting Families Through Better Sleep Habits
At Peachjar, we know that when families are informed, students are better supported—whether it’s knowing how to help their teen build healthier bedtime routines or understanding why the district’s start times are shifting.
Our platform helps schools and districts share important resources with families quickly and effectively—because helping the whole child thrive means reaching them where they are and when they need us most.