R.E. S. T. Relax Enjoy Sleep Tonight

R.E.S.T is a program which aims to promote good sleeping habits.

It is a program devised by the students'of CaLM Linkup Melton.

Students today are confronted byall sorts of distractions. Some of our students have said that they can spend up to 50 hours a week playing computer games. This means that bedtime may befour in the morning. Teaching students who have only had up to 4 hours sleep is a challenge. Many may crave food just to stay alert and focused.

So many issues today are difficult to address such as sex, drugs and all forms of risk taking behaviour.Governments have developed many types of programs to address issues and this has been costly. The results have not always meant a change in student behaviour. It is our belief that giving a higher profile to sleep behaviour for young people may result in a positive change.

We take for granted that we all know how to get to sleep. Sleep behaviour is different for all people. Some people need light on some, people need a radio on. I remember when I was a child that it would be comforting to go to sleep listening to the sounds of adults talking in the other room. I wasn't conscious of the words spoken but I did feel safe and protected. Obviously some people will need total darkness and total silence. Students felt that TV computers reading books may also be for some away of turning off and getting ready for bed. There is a belief that computer games are not helpful just before bedtime but again we felt this was up to the individual to make that choice.

Getting into bed that has clean sheets and comfortable pillows is for most of us, a form luxury. This is now a time to switch off from the days worries a time to care for ourselves. Below are some rules we see as being key to getting a good night's rest.

Sleep is such an important part of our lives. Good sleep and good sleep behaviour can create a healthy outlook on life.Our bodies our mind requires sleep so that we function successfully during the day.

Poor sleep and can equal poor behaviour.

Every child with a school behavioural problem has usually got a sleep issue at home.

How to create good sleeping habits...

1.      It is all about a regular bedtime.

2.      Get comfortable. Have a bathroom routine.

3.      Slow down, stop talking.

4.      Avoid food, caffeine, sugar.

5.      Get ready for tomorrow's charge. Set your clock and have tomorrow's bags packed.

6.      Chill,drift, nap, turn off and meditate.

7.      Go to bed happy. Resolve angry issues. Create your own peace of mind.