I am at a loss as to what to do with my son. He will be 13 next month and all of a sudden he does not want to get up for school. When he does get up he is fine and seems to have a good day. I have taken him to the doctor and everything came back okay physically. I am on the list to see a child psychiatrist but he can't see him until April. That does not help me now. I do know he is in the midst of puberty. He had a great Christmas break and everything seemed fine until school started back. I just need some suggestions that may help get him up. I have done some research and think he may have delayed sleep syndrome. He tries to go to bed but is unable to fall asleep until midnight or later. HELP!!!
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Q: I need to talk to someone about my 13 year old not wanting to go to school
Answers (2)
1/15/09 5:26pm
Hi Seeley
Well...I can tell you a couple of things...first off...once kids hit puberty they do need lots more sleep as in hours more. Has your doctor any suggestions for helping to get him to sleep a little earlier? For my son...I give him melatonin which a natural sleep aid which you can buy over the counter at the health food store or supermarket. It doesn't work for everyone but both my son and I use it and usually it takes effect about an hour after you take it.
The other thing I am wondering is...is the issue that he cannot get up for school because he is still so sleepy or is he avoiding school because there is a problem there? Is there anything going on at school lately? Any trouble with bullies or difficulty with the school work...things of this nature?
I would try to tackle the sleep issue first and also ask what is going on at school. Maybe his teachers or school counselor can shed some light on this.
I wish you the best of luck and please do let us know how things go from here.
1/15/09 3:13pm
I have fought sleeping problems so I will try to help.
First off most people believe that a bedroom is somewhere to only sleep. So pull out the electronics devices(T.V.'s, Computers, No IPODS). He can read a book but lights low.
Have him drink a cup of good ol 'Sleepy-time Tea Extra' after dinner.
Maybe a nice warm bath before he goes off to bed.
Maybe get him on a good vitamin regimin.(in the morning).
Hope this helps!
Pat
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By Seeley King— Last Modified: 12/27/10, First Published: 01/15/09
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