Sleep is something that many of us don’t have to work too hard at which is really convenient seeing as it’s critical to both our physical and mental health. How lovely it feels to crawl into bed after a long, exhausting day and drift off into the land of nod!
Imagine if eating a daily dose of raw sprouts, or running five miles a day was as crucial to our well being? We wouldn’t be quite so healthy I’m sure!
We realise how essential sleep really is when becoming first time parents...say no more.
Sleep deprivation is one of the most difficult things a family can face and is in everyone’s interests to resolve as children grow and start school. Especially since it has been reported that more than two thirds of children suffer with sleep problems leading to depression, stress and exhaustion.
A good slumber is also essential for education according to a recent American study which claims that even slight improvements in sleep can enhance academic performance.
The study, by Douglas Mental Health University Institute in partnership with Montreal’s Riverside School Board and the McGill University, involved 74 healthy children between the ages of 7 and 11. They discovered that increasing sleep by around 18 minutes each night, over five consecutive nights, had a ‘significant’ effect on studies, especially maths and English.
So how do we go about promoting at least 20 minutes more sleep each night? It might seems like a stretch but following simple rules - and sticking to them - could make all the difference.
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Turn off gadgets at least one hour before bedtime.
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Make sure no food or drink is consumed during the hour before sleep.
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Use black out blinds to ensure your child’s bedroom is dark enough to encourage sleep.
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Read before bedtime if possible.
- Make sure your child has a comfortable, supportive mattress and a spacious bed.