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Chronobiologist Urges Flexible Schedules for Students' Sleep Health

Understand your internal clock, says Roenneberg. Later school starts could boost students' well-being and readiness to learn.

As we can see in the image there is a child sleeping in the front and the background is blurred.
As we can see in the image there is a child sleeping in the front and the background is blurred.

Chronobiologist Urges Flexible Schedules for Students' Sleep Health

Chronobiologist Till Roenneberg has sparked debate with his views on early rising. As schools and universities resume after summer holidays, he advocates for more flexible schedules, especially for older children and adolescents.

Roenneberg, known for his work on biological rhythms, criticizes the idea of early rising without adequate sleep. He argues that it can lead to sleep deprivation and stress. He suggests that early rising can work, but only with seven to nine hours of sleep and a disciplined approach to light and fixed rituals.

Instead of adhering to rigid schedules, Roenneberg advises paying attention to individual sleep quality and chronotype. He believes that understanding and respecting one's internal clock can improve overall well-being. For older children, he suggests later school start times to accommodate their biological clocks.

As the new academic year begins, Till Roenneberg's insights remind us that one size doesn't fit all when it comes to sleep and scheduling. While early rising has its benefits, as seen in studies on mood and brain activity, it's crucial to consider individual needs and chronotypes. As schools and universities in most German states resume, his advice could help students and teachers alike start the day refreshed and ready to learn.

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