Sleep education should become part of national curriculum say health campaigners

October 25, 2009 by Baby Chums
Filed under: Baby Health, News

A survey of over 2,000 parents by the Sleep Council reveals that nearly half of parents did not realise that their children needed 12 hours’ sleep a night at the age of three.

Children should be taught about the importance of a good night’s sleep as part of the national curriculum, health campaigners say. Sleep experts say it is just as important as a healthy diet and exercise.

Lack of sleep, the experts argue, leads to inability to concentrate in lessons, falling asleep in classrooms and behavioural problems.

The survey showed 67 per cent admitted to worrying about the amount or quantity of sleep their children got and 96 per cent agreed lack of sleep or poor quality sleep is damaging to the health and wellbeing of children.

Bedtimes which were regular, followed by a comfortable bed were said to be the most important factors in getting a good night’s sleep. No distracations, including gadgets and a darkened room were also recognised as factors.

Chris Idzikowski, of the Edinburgh Sleep Centre, said: “Our education system must take this subject on board in a serious and structured way.

“We teach children about nutrition and ensure regular exercise is part of their weekly activities but the third critical ingredient of a healthy lifestyle, sleep, is barely touched upon.”

Jessica Alexander, a Sleep Council spokeswoman, said: “The lack of education about sleep and the factors critical to achieving the necessary quantity and quality must be addressed in schools as well as home if today’s children are to take the subject seriously.”

School’s could improve their exam and test scores as a direct result of implementing a sleep education.

A petition has been launched on the Downing Street website calling for sleep education to become part of the national curriculum.