Dear Scott Community,
A few nights ago, I stayed up late with my daughter watching some short My Little Pony videos on my phone. Despite being past her bedtime, I was trying to make up for a few nights when I was not present for the Boger nightly bedtime routine. Just as Fluttershy was exploring cures for Zecora’s Swamp Fever, I got a text from the room across the hall. It was from my wife – a link to an article about the importance of sleep for children. Of course, I pretended not to see it but read it the next day.
While I’d previously been exposed to the research on the connection between sleep and health, it had been a while since I read one specifically connected to elementary aged learners. After reading several additional articles on the topic, I came to the conclusion that the importance of quality sleep for our elementary aged children is generally understated.
In general, adequate sleep on a regular basis leads to improved attention, behavior, learning, memory, emotional regulation, quality of life, and mental and physical health (Source – AAP.org). The following chart from “Sleepforkids.org” illustrates the benefits associated with a healthy sleep routine:
When you get enough sleep you can:
- Pay attention better in school
- Be creative and think of new ideas
- Fight sickness so you stay healthy
- Be in a good mood
- Get along with friends and family
- Solve problems better
Without enough sleep you can:
- Forget what you learned
- Have trouble making good choices
- Be grumpy and in a bad mood
- Have trouble playing games and sports
- Be less patient with brothers, sisters and friends
- Have trouble listening to parents and teachers
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests 9 to 12 hours of sleep for children ages 6 to 12. They also suggest that all screens be turned off 30 minutes before bedtime and that TV, computers and other screens not be allowed in children's bedrooms. Lastly, AAP recommends starting early with a bedtime routine such as “brush, book and bed.”
For the record, I wouldn’t trade watching the My Little Pony videos with my daughter for anything. I’m sure we’ll do it again soon. And, I’ll still try to get my children to watch an “extra inning” Cubs game from time to time. These are wonderful experiences whose value cannot be overstated. But, I will try to be more aware of my children’s sleep habits (thanks to my wife!).
Thanks for your partnership in ensuring that every child, every day, is successful – and well rested!
Sincerely,
Hugh Boger
Principal
