Beducation – Don’t Let School Anxiety Impact on Sleep

If your child is anxious about school, it can cause sleep problems. However, in order to preform to the best of their abilities in the classroom, as well as socially and in terms of wellbeing, restful sleep is essential. So how can you reverse the trend? It’s a topic we hope to tackle in the following post.

Share the Problem

It may be a cliché but talking a problem through can go a long way to resolving it. To broach the subject with your child, try to avoid direct question. This may reinforce their anxiety and cause them to become withdrawn. Instead, start with broader enquiries, such as “How do you feel about school?”, before identifying specific concerns. Then work together to devise strategies for managing the issues.

It’s important to consider then timing of any chats. For instance, talking about school just before bed or on the morning of school itself, could trigger anxiety, so the afternoon me be a more appropriate time.

Bedtime Routine

Children generally react very well to routines. The set schedules become a source of reassurance and comfort. Routines can be applied to almost every area of life, including homework, sports and, of course, bed.

Any heavy meals should be consumed at least two hours before sleep. In the hours before bed, you should also try to introduce a period of quietness and tranquillity. This can include listening to relaxing music, gentle stretches and reading a book together.

Conversely, high energy activities should be avoided, such rigorous exercise and engrossing television. Electronic devices should also be switched off and put away

Learn Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation techniques can provide a tangible resource for managing stressful situations. Strategies include calming breathing techniques, visualisation and the gently repetition of a soothing phrase, like “I can deal with this.”

Practice these techniques together on a regular basis and encourage your child to employ them whether relaxation techniques in the morning and before bed, as well as other times when they feel anxious.

Consistency

Anxiety about school is not an issue that will go away overnight. However, little by little, together with your child you can work towards resolving the problem. The key is to be patient and consistent with your approach.

Is Your Child Sleeping in the Right Bed?

Children grow quickly and, just as they grow out of clothes, they may become too big for their bed –  a factor that could compromise they quality of their sleep. If you think that your child may need a new bed, please click on the following link to find your nearest Kaymed stockist, or for more information on beds, click here.