Don’t let sleep slip away at the finish line

It’s been a full-on, whirlwind year - brimming with projects, tests, assemblies, sports days, and all the milestones that make school life so lively. As we sprint toward the finish line, it’s tempting to let bedtime slide. But those extra late nights? They can really trip us up when we’re already running on empty.

School is exhausting - mentally, emotionally, and physically

Children today are taking in an incredible amount: new concepts, busy classrooms, full schedules, social dynamics to navigate, and constant stimulation. Their brains are in overdrive. Sleep isn’t just a break - it’s essential for their minds to process, organise, and store all the learning and experiences of the day.

Teachers can tell when children are tired

Tiredness doesn’t go unnoticed at school. Teachers often see it first: the child who can’t focus, who’s more irritable or emotional, or who simply seems to be in a fog. When children are well rested, they’re better able to regulate their behaviour, concentrate, and keep up socially and academically. Without enough sleep, everything feels harder.

Prioritise sleep over homework

If it’s getting late, skip the last-minute worksheet. The truth is, tired brains don’t learn well. Staying up to finish homework won’t lead to meaningful learning - just more stress. What your child really needs is rest, not pressure. A good night’s sleep is far more beneficial than cramming in a task when they’re already exhausted.

You’re not at your best when you’re tired - and neither are they

Think about how you function when you haven’t slept well: your fuse is shorter, thinking feels fuzzy, and the smallest things feel overwhelming. It’s no different for children, but with even more impact on their development and learning. Emotional regulation, attention span, and resilience all take a hit when sleep is lacking.

Sleep helps the body heal and stay healthy

During sleep, children’s bodies are busy doing important work: growing, repairing tissue, restoring energy, and fighting off illness. Sleep strengthens the immune system - making them less likely to pick up bugs and more able to recover when they do. Overtired children often get sick more easily and take longer to bounce back.

Consider an “at-home day” if they’re running on empty

If your child is yawning through breakfast, dragging their feet out the door, or showing signs of emotional exhaustion, an at-home day might be just what they need. It’s not about giving up - it’s about resetting. A day to rest and recharge can help them return to school calmer, healthier, and more ready to take on the last stretch.

If you’re waking them up, they’re not getting enough sleep

One of the simplest indicators of sleep deprivation? Needing to be woken in the morning. For school-aged children, bedtime needs to allow for at least 9–11 hours of sleep. If mornings are consistently a struggle, it’s a sign bedtime needs to move earlier.

Why sleep really matters - backed by science

• Brain Growth & Cognitive Function: Sleep supports memory, problem-solving, emotional control, and attention. It’s when the brain files away learning and prepares for the next day.

• Emotional & Behavioural Health: Sleep-deprived children are more impulsive, more emotionally reactive, and less able to cope with challenges.

• Immune System & Physical Repair: Growth hormones are released during sleep, and the immune system kicks into gear. Children heal, grow, and build resilience while they sleep.
  

Tips to power through the end of year

1. Keep bedtime consistent - even on weekends.

2. Build a wind‑down routine: low screens, quiet activities, and a regular “lights out” time.

3. Observe morning energy: struggling to wake = need more sleep.

4. Open a conversation: ask how they feel - sleepy, snappy, foggy?

5. Try an at-home day if exhaustion is affecting well-being.

6. Lead by example: parents prioritising sleep model healthy habits too.

Let’s help our children cross the finish line of the school year feeling good - both emotionally and physically. Prioritising sleep means recognising that rest is one of the most powerful tools we have to support their learning, health, and wellbeing.