Healthy sleep plays a vital role in children’s physical growth, emotional development, and long-term wellbeing. At the London School of Childcare Studies, sleep is recognised as a foundational pillar of health, alongside nutrition, physical activity and emotional support.

Why healthy sleep matters

It is well known that sub-optimal sleep leads to emotional, cognitive and physical issues. This can range from anxiety and irritability, to poor concentration and impacted learning and memory retention, as well as inappropriate food intake.

Furthermore, some of these symptoms may lead to misdiagnoses of conditions such as ADHD.

Poor or insufficient sleep can also impact the capability of the immune system, and if prolonged, can contribute to other non communicable diseases in later life.

How to support healthy sleep

Childcare Studies recommends a holistic, evidence-based approach to nurturing sleep habits (a core part of the Sleep Practitioner Programme: exploring sleep physiology, hygiene, behaviour, tools, and environments).

1. Set calming routines

When we are stressed or stimulated, akin to being in our fight or flight mode, it is very difficult to fall asleep. We need to ensure that we switch from this state to our calm, rest state. Children are the same, and parents or carers, we need to help them shift from stimulated to restful.

A predictable evening routine like a walk before sunset, a bath, or a story helps children shift into this rest mode.

2. Create an appropriate sleep environment

• A dim and quiet bedroom environment helps to support children to fall and stay asleep.
• Ensure that blinds are closed to exclude external light.
• The temperature should be cool to promote good sleep. This is also protective against SIDS.
• Bedding and mattress should be age-appropriate. For babies this should be a firm, flat mattress, free from toys or any other loose items.

3. Respect biological needs

Be aware of what is age-appropriate. This is espcially true for babies, who develop much faster, and at different ages will have different sleep and feeding needs. 

4. Focus on sleep hygiene

Avoid stimulating screens or activities before bed. Use firm surfaces, minimal bedding for infants, and remove soft toys to help reduce the risk of SIDS.

5. Promote security and consistency

Room-sharing is recommended for the first 6 months. Many families also co-sleep, whether intentionally or not. Parents should be aware of the risks and follow the appropriate guidance. The Lullaby Trust is an excellent resource for this.

6. Seek tailored support

Professional guidance from trained sleep practitioners can help families navigate complex sleep issues using evidence-based assessments, personalised sleep plans, and empathetic coaching.

Healthy sleep goes far beyond no screens after dark. It supports optimal cognitive development, positive emotional wellbeing, and  improved behaviour. Supporting it requires a thoughtful blend of routine, environmental design, biological sensitivity, safety, and, when needed, tailored help. When done well, healthy sleep fosters happier days, more restful nights, and brighter futures for families.

Interested in learning more? The London School of Childcare Studies offers a range of online & virtual sleep courses, from expert seminars and CPD courses to the comprehensive OCN Level 6 Sleep Practitioner Programme, all grounded in holistic, evidence-backed methods.