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.

Read the Article now

 

Click on the image to download the PDF

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!

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