Why sleep matters in early childhood
For parents and educators who want to nurture healthy sleep from the start
This page was created in response to one of the most common questions we hear from parents and educators:
“Should we keep children awake during the day so they sleep better at night?
Science says: no.
Children need adequate rest during the day to sleep well at night. Naps aren’t just a nice extra. They’re essential for healthy growth, learning, mood regulation, and emotional security.
Practical Resources
✔ Downloadable Info Sheet
Naps & Night Sleep: What Every Parent Deserves to Know
This one-page info sheet offers a science-backed, heartfelt explanation of why skipping naps often backfires, making night sleep harder. Designed to be shared easily in early learning settings.
✔ In-depth Article
How Daytime Rest Affects Nighttime Sleep
Discover what really happens inside a child’s brain and body when they’re kept awake too long. This science-backed, heartfelt article gently unpacks the real cost of missed naps—and shows how protecting daytime rest can make nights calmer, behaviour smoother, and wellbeing stronger. A must-read for anyone caring for young children.
A proven guide to healthy sleep
Our sister organisation, Sleepkitzzz, offers a science-informed solution to help children sleep well naturally. Created by the same team behind The Sleep & Dream Foundation.
Visit SleepKitzzz.com to learn about the Sleep Kit for Kids
Coming Soon!
✔ Enlightening conversations with early childhood specialist Victoria Edmund
• For parents
• And for early educators
You’ll find them here soon!

Trusted by…
