Sleep is important for your child’s physical and mental well-being. The amount of sleep your child needs will
depend on their age and stage of development. When children have the recommended amount of sleep they
are less likely to display challenging behaviours and are more able to learn, play and enjoy their day.
Routines
Children benefit when they know
what’s expected of them and are
able to follow a regular pattern.
Establishing a set time for bath,
story, cuddle, sleep and getting
up in the morning will help your
child to understand the pattern
of sleep and waking. It will also
help their body clock develop a
regular pattern.
Bedrooms
Bedrooms are for sleeping. The room
should be quiet, cosy, dimly lit and
feel safe for your child to fall and stay
asleep. Its preferable that your child’s
bedroom isn’t used as a time out or
punishment zone.
Soothing
Children should be put to bed awake
as this will allow them to develop
the ability to self sooth before sleep
in a quick and peaceful manner. Let
your child see you leave the room
and reassure them you will see them
in the morning
Teenagers
During adolescence, teenagers will
experience changes in their biological
body clock that makes it harder for
them to fall asleep at night and to
wake in the mornings. Try and find a
compromise such as later bedtimes or
a lie in at the weekend.
