Rest Matters: Supporting Healthy Sleep in the Early Years
Sleep is when growing brains and bodies do essential work. Here is how to support healthy rest at home and in care.
Sleep is not simply downtime. During rest, young children consolidate learning, process emotions and grow. Supporting healthy sleep is one of the most valuable things families and educators can do together.
How Much Sleep Do Children Need?
Needs vary, but general guides suggest toddlers need around eleven to fourteen hours across a day and night, while preschoolers need around ten to thirteen hours. Many young children still benefit from a daytime rest.
The Power of a Wind-Down Routine
A predictable, calming sequence signals to the body that sleep is coming. A warm bath, a quiet story and dimmed lights help children move gently from an active day into rest.
Setting the Scene for Sleep
- Keep a consistent bedtime and wake time
- Create a dark, quiet and comfortable space
- Avoid screens in the lead-up to sleep
- Offer a familiar comfort item
- Keep the wind-down calm and unhurried
Rest Time in Care
Not every child sleeps during the day, and that is completely normal. Quiet rest still restores energy and helps children pace themselves through a busy day.
At Little Roses
We provide a calm, safe rest environment and respect each child's individual sleep needs, working with families so routines feel familiar and reassuring.
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Give your child the gift of quality early education in a nurturing, play-based environment at Little Roses Early Learning & Kindergarten.