Why do we get tired?
We get tired because our body and brain use lots of energy all day.
Pip’s answer
- We get tired because our body and brain use lots of energy all day.
- Playing, learning and growing all use energy, like a toy using up its battery.
- Scientists think a sleepy feeling builds up in your brain the longer you stay awake.
- Ooh, while you sleep, your body fills back up with energy for a brand new day!
Try it together
Can you do a great big pretend yawn, buddy?
For grown-ups
We get tired because the body and brain use energy throughout the day. A chemical called adenosine builds up in the brain the longer we're awake, creating 'sleep pressure', and our internal body clock also signals when it's time to sleep. Sleep clears adenosine and restores energy.
Ask your child: What makes you feel the most tired: playing, learning or growing?
More questions kids ask
- 😴Why do we need to sleep?
- 🥱Why do we yawn?
- 🏃Why do we need exercise?
- ❤️Why does my heart beat?
- 🧼Why do I have to wash my hands?
- 🪥Why do I have to brush my teeth?
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