Children’s Sleep Awareness Month: Helping Families Sleep Better!

At Kingsley School Devon, we task ourselves at looking after our pupils' physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. We understand that good sleep is key, and the foundation for happy, healthy, and thriving children. That’s why we’re excited to shine a light on Children’s Sleep Awareness Month!

Why Sleep Matters

Did you know that up to 50% of us struggle with sleep at some point? This figure rises to 80% for children with a diagnosis of SEND. Poor sleep can impact children in many ways, including:

• Difficulty concentrating in school

• Increased irritability and mood swings

• Long-term health concerns

• Added stress for parents and families

Teenagers often find sleep taking a backseat to more exciting activities. Many can find they spend much of their evenings browsing the internet, or engaging on social media—sometimes well into the night. On top of that, homework and exam revision add to the late-night demands. Due to natural shifts in their biological clocks, teens tend to feel more awake in the evening and struggle with morning fatigue. Many struggle to get the recommended 8–10 hours of rest each night, leading to fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and even long-term health concerns. But did you know that two simple lifestyle factors—fresh air and exercise—can significantly improve sleep quality?

How Fresh Air Boosts Sleep

Spending time outdoors is one of the most effective ways to regulate sleep patterns. Natural daylight helps to balance the body’s circadian rhythm, which controls the sleep-wake cycle. Exposure to sunlight, especially in the morning, signals to the brain that it’s time to be awake and alert, making it easier to wind down at night.

Fresh air, and for all of us at Kingsley, time at the coast, is also beneficial. Oxygen-rich environments can promote relaxation, reduce stress levels, and improve overall well-being. Studies suggest that people who spend time outside during the day often fall asleep faster and experience deeper, more restorative sleep.

The Role of Exercise in Sleep Quality

Regular physical activity is another key ingredient for a good night’s rest. Exercise helps to:

• Reduce stress and anxiety – Physical activity releases endorphins, which improve mood and help alleviate stress, one of the biggest barriers to quality sleep.

• Increase sleep drive – Expending energy through exercise makes it easier to feel naturally tired at bedtime.

• Improve sleep cycles – Studies show that regular exercise can help increase time spent in deep sleep, the most restorative stage of rest.

Even moderate activity, such as a brisk walk, cycling, or a game of football, can make a difference. Ideally, exercise should be done earlier in the day rather than too close to bedtime, as intense workouts in the evening can sometimes make it harder to fall asleep.

Encouraging Healthy Sleep Habits

Incorporating fresh air and exercise into a daily routine doesn’t have to be difficult. Simple changes like walking to school, taking time outside at break times, or joining one of the Kingsley expansive curriculum offerings - surfing, sports or outdoor education  - can have lasting benefits. Parents and boarding house staff also play an essential role by encouraging outdoor activities and reducing screen time in the evening to help teenagers unwind properly before bed.

By prioritising fresh air and movement, teenagers can improve not only their sleep but also their overall physical and mental well-being. A well-rested teen is a happier, healthier, and more focused individual—ready to take on the challenges of the day ahead!

Let’s Make Bedtime Battles a Thing of the Past!

We know that every person's sleep journey is unique, and we are committed to providing the support and information families need. Ready to get started? Download the Children’s Sleep Awareness Month Supporter’s Pack from The Sleep Charity here: https://thesleepcharity.org.uk/get-involved/awareness-events/ for valuable insights, expert advice, and practical solutions to improve children’s sleep.

Here is a Sleep Challenge for us all to try:

Here’s to brighter mornings, calmer evenings, and being well-rested!