Most Chinese children have inadequate sleep, something which may affect their growth, according to a survey released on Wednesday.

The All China Women's Federation survey polled 11,529 people in 10 provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions. Included were 5,030 students and 6,499 parents.

According to the government's requirement, children between 7 and 12 years should have 10 hours of sleep daily. Those aged 13 to 15 years need nine hours and 16 to 18 years should sleep eight hours.

But the report said 7 to 12 year olds only slept 8.8 hours daily, while 13 to 15 got 8.2 hours. The 16 to 18 years received only 7.5 hours.

Two-thirds of children do not sleep at noon or have no environment for sleeping at school, the report added.

(Xinhua News Agency February 28, 2008)