Sleeping

Sleep helps our bodies to grow, and recover from illness or injury. We also need sleep for our brains to work at their best.

Why is sleep important?

Sleep helps us to be able to:

• Concentrate, and be ready to learn.
• Solve problems and have creative ideas.
• Feel happier, calmer, and more relaxed.
• Get along with others better.
• Be more physically co-ordinated.
• Help our bodies fight illness and heal injuries.
• Grow well.

How much sleep do we need?

Some people need more sleep, and some need a little less. However, young people aged between 2 and 12 years old need between 10 and 12 hours of sleep a night, while teenagers need between 8 and 10 hours.

What will help us to sleep well?

If we have trouble sleeping well, these are some things that we can do:

• Try to go to bed at the same time every night.
• A bedtime routine so that our bodies know to relax and get ready for sleep.
• Avoid TV or computers 1 hour before bed, as the ‘blue’ light makes our bodies think it is time to be awake. Reading lights do not have this effect.
• Avoid large meals or drinks within an hour of bedtime - however, drinking warm milk instead may help us sleep.
• Get enough exercise during the day (but not just before bed).

Now you have read the Fact Sheet give Harold's Quiz a try!