Wellbeing
The Power of Sleep in Learning
What a big week it has been! After all the excitement, creativity, and energy of the Production, it’s natural for children to feel both proud and a little tired. Celebrations like these are wonderful opportunities for students to shine, but they also use up a lot of mental, social, and emotional energy. With the long weekend coming up, it’s the perfect time to slow down, enjoy some restful family moments, and recharge together. A balance of rest and simple, mindful activities will help children return to school refreshed, ready, and excited for the weeks of learning ahead.
Here are some simple ideas around sleep and how it supports children at school and at home.
Sleep and Learning Go Hand in Hand
Learning doesn’t stop when the school day ends. Research shows that sleep plays a big role in helping young minds to absorb, process, and remember information.
During deep sleep, the brain is busy sorting and storing memories — moving them from short-term to long-term memory. This means a good night’s sleep helps children strengthen what they’ve learned at school, whether it’s spelling, times tables, or project work.
Sleep also helps with problem-solving, creativity, and managing emotions — so regular, healthy routines are just as important as homework.
Parents can try:
- Encouraging regular sleep and wake times (even on weekends).
- Reminding children that sleep is part of their learning — their brains are hard at work while they rest.
Setting the Scene Before Sleep
What children do before bedtime can make a big difference. Calm, screen-free activities — like reading, listening to an audiobook, or enjoying quiet conversation — help the brain relax and make it easier to drift off.
Parents can try:
- Encouraging gentle, low-stimulation activities before bed.
- Avoiding late-night cramming or screens, which can overstimulate the brain.
Creating Calm Bedtime Routines
The hour before bedtime is a great window for light, relaxed learning and winding down. A predictable routine — like reading together, listening to a story, or calming music — helps children settle more easily and sleep more soundly.
Parents can try:
- Creating a calm “wind-down hour” before bed.
- Leaving heavier study or online activities for earlier in the evening.
Signs Your Child May Need More Sleep
Sometimes, behaviour is the best clue that a child needs more rest. Look out for:
- Trouble concentrating or remembering things
- Irritability or frustration
- Difficulty waking up in the morning
- Wanting to nap during the day
Parents can try:
- Noticing these signs and adjusting bedtime routines if needed.
- Talking with children about how they feel after a good night’s rest.
Building Healthy Sleep Habits Together
Families can help set the foundation for healthy sleep by:
- Keeping bed and wake times consistent
- Switching off screens well before bedtime
- Creating calming routines — reading, talking, or gentle music
- Modelling healthy sleep habits by valuing your own rest too
A good night’s sleep is one of the most powerful tools children have for their learning and well-being. With the long weekend coming up, it’s the perfect time to slow down, enjoy some restful family moments, and recharge together. A balance of rest and simple, mindful activities will help children return to school refreshed, ready, and excited for the weeks of learning ahead.
Georgie Carman
Wellbeing Leader