Children need ample sleep. Yes, this is common-sense news to parents and non-parents alike. However, we need reminders that children should not be over-scheduled with too many after-school activities that, along with homework, can impact their ability to get a solid, good night's sleep. I recommend that parents reassess their children's after-school activities at least once per year if not once per season. The link below takes you to an excellent New York Times article about sleep and children by Dr. Perri Klass.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/10/health/10klas.html