Will more sleep really boost children’s confidence?
Sleep deprivation can be linked to feelings of sadness, anger and frustration which make it difficult to not only boost self-confidence, but it also has a negative impact on our bodies.
It can leave us feeling irritable. Most people feel drained, disconnected and a bit more emotional than usual. So, the answer is that because our emotions are more sensitive it can influence our confidence.
What can parents say to children to encourage better sleeping patterns?
‘Sleep helps you grow and gives you energy’
‘It gives your brain a chance to rest to make sure you do the right things the next day’
‘It organises everything you have learnt today to help you learn tomorrow’
‘It makes you more creative’
‘It recharges your energy for sports and playing’
‘It helps you solve problems’
‘It lets you concentrate’
‘It makes you happy and calm’
And of course, ‘it helps when you do your homework’
Tips for parents and carers
Children see adults around them as role models and will trust them when they need support.
Have you ever not stuck to a routine because you were too tired? How did it make you feel because of it? Probably felt like a failure right?
Now imagine how children feel when they don’t have a routine..... Which is why it is so important to set routines and stick to them especially as children will process things the way their parents and carers do.
Give them 100% attention, listen and understand them. I love watching movies, dramas and documentaries with my boys - it's a great way to bring up topic of conversation. I also know it makes them feel special because they know what they have to say is important to me.
Be reassuring, let them know that bad things like a pandemic doesn’t always happen. Encourage them to talk and ask questions, don’t be afraid to say ‘I don’t know’ but what you do know is that things will change. Assure them that they are safe and are being looked after.
If you want them to keep up with the news, watch Newsround on BBC. It’s news in a more child friendly manner that they are more likely to be able to relate to.
Be mindful of the adult conversations you have when children are around.
Releasing stress from the day by laughing before bedtime, can help those who struggle to sleep, build the connection to feel safe and be easier to fall asleep.
Apart from laughing, what I get my coachees to do is a mind holiday at bedtime to calm the mind and be filled with positive thoughts to fall into a happy restful sleep.
Making a habit of saying 3 things you love about each other also helps and can be reassuring. Reflect on what went well each day and of course, make sure you say goodnight.
Confidence is built on accomplishment so, when children know parents and carers are noticing the little things they do - it will mean so much to them already.
Most importantly, look after yourself by practising self care to be able to take care of the little ones, preens and teens.
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