Sleep is an important part of our everyday life and getting enough is especially important for school aged children. While we sleep our body has time to repair, grow and sort information gained throughout the day. Not to mention good sleep helps our immune system fight off infections.
School aged children, 5-12 years old, should get 10 -11 hours of sleep a night. When children feel refreshed their brains are better able to cope with the learning and any stress faced during the day.
Suggestions for a restful night’s sleep:
- Set a sleep routine with a set bedtime.
- Take a bath or read before bed to get calm feeling.
- Limit caffeine throughout the day.
- Exercise during the day but not right before bedtime.
- Limit screen time before bed. It tricks the body into thinking you are not ready for bed, because it restricts melatonin production.