Skye Primary School Newsletter

Health and Medical

Belinda Schodde | School Nurse                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Image by Dulcie Pula Long

Work placement students 

This year I have a couple of students shadowing me on Friday's they are students in secondary college completing VCE VM studies, undertaking their Certificate III in health service assistance at Tafe, then once leaving high school moving on to complete further studies in nursing and health.  

Vicky is in year 12 at Patterson River Secondary College 

Charlotte is in year 11 at Carrum Downs Secondary College

Children and sleep

As a parent myself I know it is difficult getting into routine following school holidays and illness, so understandably for some it is extremely hard to get back into the swing of things, and it may take longer than normal and that is OK! Just know you are doing a great job. 

A good night’s sleep is vital for our children’s growth and development. 

When your child sleeps well, s/he is more settled, happy and more likely to be ready for the school day. Getting the required amount of sleep strengthens their immune system and can reduce the risk of infection and illness’. 

  • Children aged 5-13 years need a minimum or 10-11 hours’ sleep a night  
  • Teenagers 14-17 years need 8-10 hours of sleep per night.  

They are usually tired after school and may even look forward to bedtime from about 7.30pm.

Bedtime routine

A bedtime routine is very important for school aged children. It helps your child wind down from the day.  Keep the bedroom dark, cool and quiet so they can drift off easily. 

A bedtime routine might look like this: 

Time:Routine:
6.30pmshower/bath, put on pyjamas, brush teeth, go to the toilet.
7.00pm quiet time in the bedroom with a book (a great suggestion is the school readers) or a quiet calm chat/story, meditation, calming music (smiling minds app is great for meditation).
7.30pm goodnight and bright lights out, some children like a lamp or night light, some like eye masks, teddies, blankets and other comforters.

 

After a big day at school, many of the day’s events and worries might be still rattling around in your child’s head.  If these are still unresolved when your child goes to bed, it can cause a restless night, bad dreams and bedwetting.  You can help your child settle and relax for sleep by promoting good sleep habits like the above examples.

 

Thank you 

Nurse Belinda