How much sleep does a 6-year-old need?

A 6-year-old generally needs between 9 and 12 hours of sleep each night. Many children at this age function best with around 10 or 11 hours. School schedules, homework, activities and family routines can sometimes push bedtime later, but sufficient sleep remains important for concentration, behavior and physical health. If your child must wake at 6:30 a.m., they may need to be asleep between 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., depending on their individual needs. Begin the bedtime routine early enough to allow time for settling. Signs of inadequate sleep can include difficulty waking, irritability, hyperactivity, poor attention and falling asleep during car rides. Keeping bedtime and wake-up time consistent can make mornings easier and improve sleep quality.