After recess, Miss Pat noticed that Kathy had her head on the table and was sound asleep.

Her table mates were trying not to giggle, but Kathy was snoring so loudly it was hard to hear Miss Pat.

Miss Pat went over to Kathy and gently shook her awake. Kathy woke with a start. ” I was just resting my eyes,” said Kathy. Her classmates started laughing and Arthur J said, “You were snoring, Kathy.

You were asleep and you were really snoring!”

Kathy got mad and said,”Was not asleep; was not snoring!” The her classmates yelled out, “Were too snoring!” Hector even demonstrated how she sounded. Kathy’s face got beat red and her eyes got all watery. She was so embarrassed.

Miss Pat asked,”Kathy, why so tired?” Kathy answered, “The last time I fell asleep in class it was because I didn’t eat a good breakfast. But this morning I had eggs and toast and juice and that is a good breakfast.”

Miss Pat said,”What time did you go to bed last night?” Kathy answered, “I went to bed at my usual time but I couldn’t get to sleep for a long time.”

Orrie started waving his hand madly and saying, “I know, I know.” Miss Pat called on him saying, “What do you know, Orrie?”

“I think I know why Kathy couldn’t fall asleep last night. I saw her take a can of soda up to bed with her. It was the kind of soda that has caffeine in it. it also has lots of sugar.”

Miss Pat asked, “Is that true, Kathy?” Kathy nodded. Miss Pat said, ” Sugary drinks, especially those with caffeine can make you jumpy any time. If  you drink them but before bed, well, they can keep you up for hours!”

“What else shouldn’t we have before bed,” asked Miss Pat. Bobby said,” No eating candy.” Annie said, “Don’t take sugary cereals.”

Miss Pat smiled, “Got the idea Kathy? Ask your mom what you can have as a safe and healthy snack so you can get to sleep and stay asleep.”