Why Teens Don't Sleep (and What Parents Can Do About It)

Why do so many teens and tweens struggle with sleep—and what can parents actually do to help? In this insightful episode of The Parenting Pair Podcast, Dr. Annalise Caron and Dr. Suzanne Allen sit down with clinical psychologists, Dr. Allison Shale and Dr. Andrea Roth, to unpack the science and psychology behind adolescents’ sleep challenges. They explore why biological shifts, technology use, and academic pressure make it harder for teens to fall asleep—and how family routines, communication, and environmental changes can make a big difference. Together, they discuss: The biological changes in sleep patterns during adolescence How school schedules and technology affect sleep quality Why “catching up” on weekends doesn’t really work Ways to relate to your teens regarding realistic bedtime expectations How to talk about sleep without power struggles Practical strategies to support better sleep hygiene for the whole family Here are some highlights from the episode: 00:00 – Be Kind to Yourself: Supporting Your Teen’s Sleep Without Guilt 03:09 – Recommended Reading: The Essential Guide to Children’s Sleep 04:20 – How Much Sleep Do Teens and Tweens Really Need? 05:59 – Expert Advice for Parents Struggling With Teen Sleep Challenges 07:43 – The Hidden Anxiety about Sleep Deprivation in Teens 08:09 – Biological Changes That Disrupt Teen and Tween Sleep Patterns 10:46 – Should You Let Your Teen Sleep In on Weekends? 14:12 – Understanding Sleep Inertia and “Social Jet Lag” in Adolescents 17:48 – Can Morning Sunlight Help Teens Reset Their Sleep Cycles? 20:34 – Why Parents Should Acknowledge Their Own Sleep Struggles 21:39 – When to Seek Professional Help for Your Teen’s Sleep Issues 25:27 – Why Teens May Listen Better to Other Adults Than Their Parents 26:42 – Why Melatonin Shouldn’t Be the First Solution for Teen Sleep 31:37 – Behavioral Strategies to Help Teens Improve Their Sleep If you’ve ever found yourself worrying about your teen staying up too late—or being exhausted and moody the next morning—this episode offers both reassurance and research-based tools to help your family rest easier. Additionally, you can check out Dr. Roth and Dr. Shale's new book, with Dr. Shelby Harris, The Essential Guide To Children's Sleep: A Tired Caregiver's Workbook for Every Age and Stage or you can find them on instagram at @essentialkidsleep. And as always, share this episode with fellow parents who may find it helpful—because caring for our family's sleep is essential for good mental and physical health. 🔔 Subscribe to The Parenting Pair Podcast for more expert guidance on raising resilient, healthy teens. Watch on YouTube: The Parenting Pair Connect with us: 📩 Email: [email protected] 📱 Instagram: @‌theparentingpair DISCLAIMER: The Parenting Pair Podcast is designed for informational and educational purposes only. Do not rely on the information presented in this podcast as as a substitute or replacement for professional -- psychological or medical -- advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have concerns about you or a family member's well being, please contact a licensed mental health professional or physician.