Being Well at Magill

Sleep: Is your child getting enough?

Sleep, mental health and anxiety

It will come as no surprise that studies have found the less sleep children get, the greater the impact on their wellbeing: behaviour, mental health, emotions and learning. Lack of sleep can also affect your child’s level of anxiety. When children don’t sleep the previous night, they are more likely to feel much more anxious the next day.

The Australian Sleep Association recommends the following amount of sleep:

For three- to five-year-olds: 10-13 hours.
For six- to thirteen-year-olds: 9-11 hours.
For fourteen- to seventeen-year-olds: 8-10 hours.

How can I tell if my child is not getting enough sleep?

If your child is still showing signs of sleepiness after 45 minutes of first waking up in the morning, it might be an indication your child has not had enough sleep.

What can we do to ensure our children get enough sleep?

A consistent bedtime routine (same actions before bed, with bedtime at the same time) can help children get longer periods of sleep than those without a routine – and also that the more nights per week parents/caregivers follow the routine, the more sleep the children got.

The Australian Sleep Association has found that children and teens who play sport get more sleep than those who don’t and fall asleep faster on days they play sport.

If you find your child is not responding to routine and activity, chat to your GP about your concerns or visit a psychologist for further support. For more information on this topic follow the link to Calm Kid Central

https://www.calmkidcentral.com/

Stay well! The Wellbeing team at Magill.

A message from Donna Kingston - PCW

Hi children,

This is a photo of a box where you can pop a note in, if you feel like you would like someone to talk to. Please put your name and class on the piece of paper, so that I know how to find you. You will find the box at the front office on the bench.

Donna Kingston

Need Professional support or advice?

KidsHelpline: 1800 551 800

Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636

Lifeline: 13 11 14