Mental Health and Wellbeing Coordinator

Sleep

“Sleep is that golden chain that ties health and our bodies together.” Thomas Dekker

Dear Families,

Most mornings I set my alarm for just before five o’clock. I get dressed, turn on the oven and then go for a ride down Thirteenth Beach, often starting in the dark and returning as the sun starts to rise, towards the end of the year anyway (my winter rides are dark all the way). I return home, bake my sourdough then get ready for work. Often, I’ll ride my bike to school and by the time I arrive, I’ve had a wonderful start to my day.

Sometimes, however, when my alarm goes off in the darkness, I know that I need to stay in bed. An extra hour lie in is what my body and mind need some days. Some mornings I hear the rain on the roof and wake with a smile, as I roll over and get some more sleep. And, sometimes I’ll take a full week off the bike, enjoying some extra rest. 

Sleep is something that we all need. There have been many studies about how much sleep each of us require as we travel through the various stages of our lives. And many of these recommendations are different too. For me, there is a skill for us to learn to understand how much sleep each of us need. As a parent, teaching my children at home this skill is something I’ve been working with for a while, and it is constantly changing. I often look to the moods and behaviours of my children to see if they are getting enough sleep. Although I try to promote independence with my kids, sometimes they need my intervention and support. 

If you and your family would like to think about some ideas to help you all get a better night’s sleep, you might like to think about this information from ‘Smiling Mind’…:

Our new Sleep for Families Program is now available in the Families section of our app. We know from research many people experience trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early and not being able to get back to sleep. 

We also know that about one third of school-aged children may have sleep problems, which will inevitably affect the amount of sleep you enjoy as a parent. 

The good news is there are evidence-based routines and activities you can do as a family to give you and your children the best chance of a good night's sleep.

Click here to find out more about Smiling Mind – and it’s free too!

“Tired minds don't plan well. Sleep first, plan later.” Walter Reisch

Sleep and rest well everyone. 

It’s going to be a busy few weeks ahead for many of us.

Andy McNeilly

Mental Health and Wellbeing Coordinator (M-HAWC)