Junk Sleep

Because of stress over school or work, relationships and distractions from TV, computers, text messaging, and video games, your teenagers may not be getting enough quality sleep. A survey of 1000 teens by The Sleep Council showed that nearly a third of teens get just 4 to 7 hours of sleep instead of the recommended 8 to 9 hours. Called “junk sleep” by experts, this cannot provide the quality of rest needed for the brain and body to function properly.

Consider that almost all teens have a TV, music system, or phone in their bedrooms (two thirds have all three) and that 50% of boys aged 12 to 14 also have game consoles. Add in parents who allow school-night sleepovers and don’t enforce traditional “lights out” rules and it’s no surprise that teens are sleep deprived.

Aside from the obvious irritability and inability to concentrate, there are real consequences to going without enough rest. It can affect the immune system, contribute to weight gain, and even increase cravings for sugary, high-fat foods.

What’s a Mother’s Work Worth?

Moms, have you ever wondered how much your work is worth? According to a recent survey of over 40,000 mothers, the work they do would be valued at $138,000 if they were paid! That's a $5,000 increase from last year.

The many roles that mothers do include accountant, activities director, chef, chauffeur, counselor, delivery service, dispatcher, emergency responder, financial planner, judge, life coach, maid, music instructor, nurse, personal shopper, photographer, record keeper, rent-a-techie, rodeo clown, secretary, set designer, teacher, travel agent.

To find out what your paycheck would look like, input your data on Salary.com .

• Previous Page
• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page

Issue: November 2007