Benefits of good sleep

A healthy sleep routine supports your child's physical, emotional, and cognitive development.

Key benefits

Physical Health: Sleep helps in growth and makes the immune system stronger.
Concentration and Learning: Well-rested children can focus better, which is essential for learning.
Mood and Behaviour: Good sleep can help with managing mood and emotional regulation. This can reduce irritability and behavioural issues.
Promotes Long-Term Mental Health: Healthy sleep habits in childhood contribute to improved mental health as they grow older.

“There is a huge reduction in a lot of negative mental health outcomes in adulthood, if children sleep well. Think of it as an investment” - Dr Chris Seton (Paediatric & Adolescent Sleep Physician) 

Not getting enough sleep can negatively impact your child's physical, emotional, and cognitive health. This means they may have difficulty:

concentrating and learning
managing or regulating their emotions
following directions
using problem-solving skills.

Lack of sleep can also impact your child's immune system. This can make it easier for them to get sick and make their recovery time longer.

Impact of sleep deprivation

Sleep deprivation happens when a child regularly doesn’t get enough sleep. While missing sleep once in a while can leave your child feeling tired or moody, sleep deprivation is when they don’t get enough sleep over a longer period.

Sleep deprivation can affect your child’s physical health, emotions, and ability to think clearly. They may find it harder to:

focus
learn
manage their feelings
follow instructions
solve problems.

Sleep deprivation can also weaken a child's immune system, making them more likely to get sick and take longer to get better.

For more tips on how to help your child get enough sleep, see Improving your child's sleep pattern s.