Researchers Say Early School Start Times Hinder Teens’ Academic Performance
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iStockphoto/Thinkstock(NEW YORK) — A new report published by the American Academy of Pediatrics says that schools may be starting too early, and may in turn hinder teenagers’ education.
The report, published in the journal Pediatrics, cites previous studies which showed that when teens have to wake up earlier for school, they are often sleep deprived and perform worse in school. In fact, researchers say, schools with delayed start times show better grades and fewer students being involved in car accidents.
Other obstacles the researchers cited as causes for teenagers failure to get sufficient sleep include electronics, biological changes and caffeine.
The AAP recommended, based on the report, that pediatricians support school policy changes that would move back school start times.
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