Research: One in five kids suffer from sleep deprivation
New research reveals one in five children suffer sleep deprivation, and two in five have poor nightly routines.
Primary school students across Melbourne have gone to school in their pyjamas to mark world sleep day, but behind the fun is a serious message for parents.
“Often we notice that children are coming into the classroom at 9am yawning straight away, so it's really hard to keep them motivated and energised throughout the day,” primary school teacher Amy Tinetti said.
The ramifications for primary aged children in particular can be serious, as a lack of sleep can inhibit their health and development, and affect their learning in the classroom.
“When they perform various tests, they do perform worse if they haven't had enough sleep,” sleep specialist Nicole Verginis said.
Today, sleep experts paid a visit to 6,000 students across Melbourne to teach them why a good night's rest is important.
The warning signs for sleep deprivation include hyperactivity, mood swings and a poor attention span
Experts advise limiting technology, heavy meals, exercise and fizzy drinks just before bed to help children get to sleep properly.
It is also essential that children sleep at the same time every night, and that the bedroom is cool, dark and quiet.
