WITH the return to school this week, Queensland Health is reminding Ipswich parents of the recommended sleep and physical activity levels for children.

Sleep deprivation can lead to fatigue, learning and concentration difficulties and kids who do not get enough sleep may display symptoms including moodiness and temper tantrums.

Young People’s Health, Child and Family Health Services clinical nurse consultant Helen Walker said sleep was particularly important for children to perform well at school.

“Sleep deprivation affects children differently to adults. Adults tend to slow down when they are tired. Children on the other hand, tend to speed up with increased irritability, over activity and hyperactive behaviour,” she said.

It is recommended that primary school children get 10 hours’ sleep a night and teenagers get nine to 10 hours.

Ms Walker said it was just as important for children to be physically active every day.

“Regular sleep and physical activity established at a young age leads to extensive health benefits in the future and establishes positive behaviour patterns for adolescence and adulthood.”