School nursing advice for sleep

Sleep difficulties are common in childhood and we know that if a child is not sleeping well it can affect the health and wellbeing of everybody in the household. There are routines and practices, often called ‘sleep hygiene’, that you can use to help better sleep.

Active brains can have difficulties relaxing. The Sleep Charity provide information around childhood sleep issues. The Sleep Charity has some relaxation at bedtime tips. Their helpline is 03303 530 541.

Evidence suggests that a good bedtime routine can help to resolve issues with sleep. Theo Bear’s sleep routine can help for children who need something visual to reinforce their routine.

Certain foods high in ‘tryptophans’ which can help with sleep. For more information, visit sleepy foods.

You can find online seminars to support sleep on the Sheffield Directory. The events page will show dates and details for ‘Time to Sleep’ and ‘Time to Sleep Neurodiverse’ seminars.  If you are still having sleep issues after implementing the strategies in these seminars, you could self-refer to the Parent Hub for some additional support around sleep.

The teenage brain experiences rapid development and their hormones can play a role in them struggling to sleep until much later than everyone else in the household. Try the Teen Sleep Hub for age appropriate information and advice and resources.