How much sleep does a 5-year-old need?

A 5-year-old generally needs around 10 to 13 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. Most children this age receive nearly all their sleep at night, although an occasional nap may still be helpful after a particularly active or tiring day. Starting school can increase the importance of a regular bedtime because children need sufficient sleep for attention, memory, learning and emotional control. If a 5-year-old must wake at 7:00 a.m., a bedtime that allows them to be asleep between about 7:30 and 9:00 p.m. may be appropriate. Individual needs vary. If your child wakes naturally, remains alert and manages the day well, the schedule is probably working. Difficulty waking and frequent irritability may indicate too little sleep.