A good night’s sleep can make all the difference to your child’s mood. It’s also super important for physical and mental health as it helps the body repair and renew itself and the brain process thoughts and memories. So if your child or teen is struggling to fall asleep, or to stay asleep, we’ve put together some tips they could try.
How much sleep should my child or teen be getting?
This of course various from child to child. However, as a general guide:
- 11-13 year olds typically need between 9 and 11 hours of sleep.
- 14-17 year olds typically need between 8 and 10 hours of sleep.
- 18-25 year olds typically need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep.
Tips for older children and teenagers to help them get a good night’s sleep
Tip #1: Keep active
Tip #1: Keep active
Tip #2: Keep the bedroom a device-free zone
Tip #2: Keep the bedroom a device-free zone
Tip #3: Reduce noise and light
Tip #3: Reduce noise and light
Tip #4: Avoid caffeine and sugary foods
Tip #4: Avoid caffeine and sugary foods
Tip #5: Try a hot bath or shower
Tip #5: Try a hot bath or shower
Tip #6: Relax
Tip #6: Relax
Tip #7: Have a regular sleep routine
Tip #7: Have a regular sleep routine
Tip #8: Talk through any worries
Tip #8: Talk through any worries
More information
You can find more tips and advice on what to do if poor sleep is a problem at the Mental Health Foundation website. You can also get help with sleep problems at the Sleep Scotland website.