Important Facts about Sleep and Children

November 5, 2019

Most adults will tell you that sleep is their best friend–although, for some reason, kids never seem to agree! For many kids, that’s just because bedtime is boring or they’re not ready to stop playing. But for others, it might be because they don’t have a bed to sleep in. Let’s take a look at the scientific reasons why kids need a good night’s rest (and a safe, comfortable bed, too).

Sleep Facts

Here are a few sleep facts that everyone should know!

According to Harvard University

  • Poor sleep can lead to hyperactivity issues as early as age five.
  • In teenagers, anxiety, and depression are linked to poor sleeping habits 27% and 69% of the time, respectively.
  • Kids who don’t sleep well also won’t grow as well as their peers.

According to the National Science Foundation and Auburn University

  • Kids who get good sleep tend to get sick less frequently.
  • Plenty of sleep means better grades, better emotional health, and better home life.

According to The Better Sleep Council

  • Sleep is a sort of “recharge” time for body and mind.
  • During sleep, cells can repair themselves, leading to better physical health.
  • The brain and body also release important hormones during a good night’s sleep, leading to better physical and emotional health.

The Truth About Good Sleep

What does “good sleep” look like? The truth is that it’s a little different for all of us, but for kids, the general definition of good sleep is:

  • enough sleep,
  • uninterrupted, high-quality sleep,
  • sleep schedules that match circadian rhythms,
  • and an appropriate number of naps.

Sounds pretty great, right?

Well, the unfortunate truth is that, as difficult as it can be for adults to get good sleep, it might be even more difficult for kids. After all, their schedules are often packed with school, homework, chores, activities, and more.

Consequences of Poor Sleep

However, even if it is more complicated to ensure children get enough sleep, it’s crucial that they do. Low-quality or insufficient sleep can have substantial health impacts on a child’s body and mind, including:

  • behavioral issues,
  • physical, mental, and social development issues,
  • lack of focus,
  • a weaker immune system,
  • and emotional issues including anxiety and depression.

It’s safe to say that good sleep is a must.

Does Your Child Need a Bed?

Busy schedules and long school days aren’t the only things making it difficult for kids to get good sleep. Safe, comfortable beds are also a big part of the equation. Without them, children of all ages aren’t getting all the benefits of high-quality rest. To solve this problem, SHP offers free twin bunks upon request. After all, every kid deserves a good night’s sleep.

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Help Kids Get Beds for Better Sleep

“It’s hard for visions of sugar plums to dance in a little girl’s head when she’s sleeping on a cold floor. It’s hard for a little boy to sleep in heavenly peace on a saggy living room couch. Too many children don’t have a bed to sleep in,” says Regina Brett. “Too many end up sleeping on the floor, on a couch or in a chair, night after night. Every child deserves a bed. It’s a basic need.”

To meet this basic need and help all kids enjoy the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of good sleep, Sleep in Heavenly Peace is working to build and distribute beds to struggling families at no cost. After all, as we adults know, there’s nothing better than a good night’s sleep.

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