Healthy Sleep For The Whole Family
Sleep is so important for the health and well-being of the whole family. We know that when we don’t get enough sleep we feel tired, but what other impact does sleep deprivation have on our bodies? We are seeing more and more studies that indicate a lack of sleep increases your risk of stroke, diabetes, heart disease and some cancers. Lack of sleep also affects other things like our appearance, our mood, how much energy we have, and our intimate relationships. We put a lot of emphasis on healthy eating and exercise, but what about healthy sleep?
We are seeing more and more studies that indicate a lack of sleep increases your risk of stroke, diabetes, heart disease and some cancers.
Dr. Marc Weissbluth, author of Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child says, “Sleep is the power source that keeps your mind alert and calm. Every night and at every nap, sleep recharges the brain’s battery. Sleeping well increases brain power just as lifting weights builds stronger muscles, because sleeping well increases your attention span and allows you to be physically relaxed and mentally alert at the same time. Then you are at your personal best.” Besides recharging our batteries, there are many other benefits to getting a good night’s sleep. Here are 5 reasons why healthy sleep is important for the whole family.
Besides recharging our batteries, there are many other benefits to getting a good night’s sleep.
Cognitive Ability
Lack of adequate sleep results in a decrease in attention span, memory loss, and difficulty making decisions. It has been shown to affect problem solving skills, social skills and language skills.
Illness
When the body isn’t getting enough sleep, its immune system has difficulty fighting off illnesses. Children become more susceptible to infections, which means more time away from learning and playing. Caregivers are also more likely to get common illnesses like a cold, which means less quality time with our children.
Safety
Sleep deprivation affects fine motor skills. Simple tasks like climbing stairs, running or even walking can quickly become difficult and dangerous, especially for wobbly toddlers and parents carrying children. Children tend to be clumsier when they haven’t had enough sleep.
Mood
When children are short on sleep they become irritable, easily frustrated, hyperactive and down right cranky! Let’s be honest, Mom and Dad do too! Behavioral problems have also been linked to getting insufficient sleep.
Weight Management
Studies have shown that a lack of sleep in childhood can contribute to obesity later on. Hormones which regulate appetite are thrown off when the body doesn’t get enough sleep and children and adults alike are hungrier. This can lead to larger portions and frequent snacking. In addition to eating more, children and adults who are tired are less likely to be physically active.
More on creating an ideal sleep environment and sleep techniques.
Jenn Kelner is a mother of three children, including twins, and a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant at BabyZzz. Just as every family is unique, Jenn supports many different sleep methods and works directly with families to design a solution that will help them become well-rested, happy families.
