Rest and Sleep Importance

Sleep might look like doing nothing, but while you are asleep your body is incredibly busy. Sleep is one of the most powerful health habits there is — as important as eating well and exercising.

What the body does during sleep

• Grows — most growth hormone is released during deep sleep. Children literally grow while they sleep!
• Repairs — muscles, skin, and other tissues that were damaged or worn down during the day are repaired overnight.
• Strengthens the immune system — the body produces more infection-fighting cells during sleep, helping you fight off illness.
• Consolidates memory — the brain sorts and stores everything you learned during the day, moving it into long-term memory.
• Example: After a good night's sleep, children remember things they learned the day before much better.

How much sleep do children need?

• Children aged 6–7 need 9 to 11 hours of sleep every night.
• A regular bedtime helps — the body works best on a consistent sleep schedule.
• The bedroom should be dark, quiet, and cool for the best quality sleep.

What happens without enough sleep

• Tiredness and difficulty concentrating.
• Grumpy moods and trouble managing emotions.
• Weakened immune system — you get sick more easily.
• Slower growth because less growth hormone is released.