Student Wellbeing
The importance of sleep and learning
What a child wants is not always what they need. Although your child may want to stay up, or play on their digital device, they may not understand the importance of sleep. Learning requires focus, retrieval of prior learning, connecting with new learning, and thinking time, all of which can be significantly impacted by poor sleep. Setting limits often benefits children in more ways than just improving sleep, as they feel secure and contained.
Expect some resistance. Your child probably doesn't want to change, so things may get worse briefly before they get better.
Implement a consistent bedtime routine
Behaviour change can be challenging and it may take some time before you see improvement. Have a predictable, enjoyable routine with calm activities such as a bath or a set number of stories. Avoid stimulating activities, such as watching TV, running around, or computer games. Have a set bedtime that has already been explained during the daytime. Try to avoid negotiating with your child at bedtime and do not enter into a battle if they protest. Calmly remind them of the new rules and continue. Remember, this is what they need.
Key points to remember
- Be clear about your child's needs, set limits, and implement a consistent, predictable bedtime routine.
- Avoid negotiating with your child at bedtime, and remain calm and consistent.
- Positive reinforcement and rewards are an important part of behaviour change – praise (and reward) your child for doing well at night and first thing the next morning
Lisa
Deputy Principal & Wellbeing Leader
lisa.heath@smcmeppingnth.catholic.edu.au
Jess
Deputy Principal & Learning Diversity Leader