Sleep advice

Helping Young Children Sleep Better

Many young children struggle to settle down for sleep and may wake up during the night. While this might not be an issue for everyone, a lack of sleep can be challenging for you or your child. Fortunately, there are some straightforward strategies you can implement.

Our support video offers techniques aimed at enhancing your child’s ability to fall asleep. It emphasizes bedtime routines and the moments leading up to sleep, but it also includes guidance on how to assist them if they wake during the night. The session lasts just under 23 minutes, providing valuable insights for better sleep.

Watch the support video on sleep here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LEReKIeGYY

See the below links for further information on sleep:

NHS – Sleep and young children – NHS

The Sleep Charity – https://thesleepcharity.org.uk/information-support/children/

Coventry Parenting Team – Sleep Workshops Sleep Tight Programme – Parenting support – Coventry City Council

Is Your Child Getting Enough Sleep?

Here at school nursing, we can support parent/carers with managing your child’s sleep. Why not follow the steps below:

Ten steps to developing good sleep habits

• Where possible make sure that the bedroom is quiet, dark and unstimulating.
• Particularly on weekdays set a regular bedtime and wake your child at a regular hour each morning and stick to it.
• Keep bedroom temperature to a comfortable level, as high temperatures disturb sleep.
• Make sure your child does not go to bed hungry.
• Avoid stimulating activities the hour before bedtime (e.g. rough play, dancing, loud music and T.V). Viewing TV, iPad, phone games and screens before bedtime decreases the amount of melatonin that the body makes as the screen make the brain think that it is not bedtime. Melatonin makes the body feel tired and start to yawn and think about going to bed.
• Do not let your child sleep late in the afternoon, if your child is struggling to stay awake try making bedtime earlier.
• Avoid drinks of cola, chocolate, tea and coffee before bedtime.
• Establish a pre-bedtime settling routine e.g. bath-time, teeth brushing and story. It is also important to discuss anything which may be worrying your child, as stress can affect sleep.
• Encourage your child to fall asleep alone in his/her own bed.
• Positive reinforcement. Provide immediate attention following a good night. Rewards can be anything from using a star chart, praise and hugs.

If you feel that you would like further support on sleep management for your child, then you can contact the school nursing team.

Remember a good sleep routine is the key to a happy and healthy child!