Reading, wRiting, aRithmatic. The “three Rs” is an old-fashioned formula for school success. Now, research shows another important “R” is part of the equation: Rest.
However, parents often forget that getting a good night’s sleep is one of the most important factors in helping their kids achieve success in school. It’s a known fact that kids who are sleep deprived perform poorly in class. According to the National Sleep Foundation, more than 25 percent of students fall asleep in class and 22 percent fall asleep doing homework, which is (obviously) not conducive to learning and retaining important information.
As the head of clinical research for Select Comfort, AND as a parent of an eight- and an eleven-year old, I’ve learned a lot about sleep and its effect on kids. So, believe me when I say that even 15 minutes can make an impact!
The bottom line is kids need to be well-slept to perform well in school. This applies to younger kids, older college-aged kids, and the young at heart. A good night’s sleep helps students properly store the information learned during the day. And being well rested allows the brain to build upon previously learned topics such as mathematics, science and music. Study after study shows that our children require long, uninterrupted nights of sleep for the brain to sort, prioritize and file away newly acquired knowledge and skills.
And big kids are impacted in much the same way. Employees who are sleep deprived report increased daytime drowsiness, which can lead to poor concentration, absenteeism, accidents, errors, injuries and, in extreme cases, fatalities.
Inability to perform well at school or at work is a great reason to break bad summer-time sleep habits. Below are several simple tips parents can employ to help the entire family achieve a better night’s sleep:
• Make bedtime a gradual process. If you and your kids aren’t getting enough quality sleep, gradually make bedtime earlier and earlier by 15-minute increments until everyone acclimates to a sleep schedule needed to function best.
• Establish a bedtime routine. Thirty minutes before bedtime, begin getting your family prepared for bed – both physically and mentally. Turn off bright lights and electronics, pick out clothes for the next day, brush teeth, etc.
• Remove gadgets. Minimize media-related activities like texting, TV and video games one hour prior to bedtime.
• Minimize light. Reduce the amount of light your family is exposed to the hour prior to bedtime and in the bedroom.
• Set homework guidelines. Try to get homework done early so that kids aren’t stressed too close to bedtime. Also, homework shouldn’t be done in bed.
• Consistency is key. Maintain a consistent bedtime routine and sleep schedule – especially on the weekends.
• Ensure quality bedding. Invest in a quality mattress and bedding accessories for all family members.
Performing well at school and work is achieved by getting enough quality sleep. It’s truly one of the most important factors in helping you and your kids achieve success. I hope you and your family sleep well this school year.
- Pete
