[Decision]

I just returned from my daughters parent teacher interview, she told me my daughter is falling asleep in class!
At the beginning of the year my daughter came to me after school and said that she knows everything so she just sleeps when she gets bored at school, I did not take that seriously because I didnt really believe she could fall asleep at school. I figured she was bored as she is above grade one level, and would daydream...never in my life would I have thought she actually did fall asleep. She goes to bed at 7:30pm wakes up at 7:00am
is that not enough sleep? there are a few nights she still crawls into bed with me but only after a bad dream (not very often at all) and then there are a few days she will wake up with Daddy 5:30 am. But always goes back to sleep after he leaves. Is she really bored? The teacher said she is her brightest student, a bit shy but very bright, she always has the right answer when called upon. The teacher was laughing when she told me of her little naps, she said well at least she is quiet. Has anyone gone though this, should I get her tested for some sleep disorder? She does sleep fine at night...can a child really be that bored in school and fall asleep? Any suggestions on how to keep her mind occupied?
Hugs
Melissa

[BrandyHagz]

I wouldn’t have her tested for a sleep disorder; I'd have her tested for more challenging classes...

When I was in second grade, I had the same “nap” issues. At first, my teacher was concerned, but once she realized I was completing my work and then going to sleep…she wasn’t so worried.

She elected to have some testing done, and found that I was on a 4th grade level, rather than second grade…so at the end of the year (it was already past mid year at this point) they tested me for grade placement, and I went to 4th instead of 3rd, and even then it wasn’t all the challenging…but it was better.

I also went from 4th to 6th and then in 7th I became home schooled by my stepmother.

Talk to her school counselor and see what options you have.

[lucyjoy]

You might want her doctor to see her. My son's iron level dropped once and he slept more than he should. He's always been healthy and eaten healthy, but he takes vitimins now when he starts feeling tired.

Also, my six year old started falling asleep at school when he had an ear infection. He had no other symptoms at all.

Other viral infections can also cause this.

[nancynic]

Hi,

I think it would be a good idea to talk with your daughter's pediatrician just in case the sleepiness is physical.

My suspicion, though, is that she is not challenged enough at school and so she takes a nap because she is, indeed, bored. If this is the case, can you talk with the principal, a guidance counselor or the teacher ? Or perhaps have a conference with all three? Are there programs within the school system for kids who are advanced academically?

Let us know what you find out ... as I'm sure it will be helpful to other parents.

Thanks,
Nancy

[Papamba]

First of all, even if you are bored you won't go to sleep unless you are sleepy. I certainly would speak to your child's dr. to see what they have to say. Secondly, as a former elementary teacher, I don't think a child should be allowed to sleep in class, even if they have finished assigned work. Doesn't she access to books to read or paper to write a story or something to do when she is completed with work. From your post, it sounds to me the teacher doesn't try to wake her up she just allows her to sleep. What a waste of your child's time in school. IMHO.

Pam