There are two major growth spurts in childhood; in the first two years of life and then again in adolescence (the teenage years!) As teenagers enter puberty their hormones and bodies are changing quickly. To add extra pressure to this transition they are living in a world that functions at a faster pace than ever.
In the first years of life as parents we encourage our babies and toddlers to nap, the natural end to this is when infants have finished their first growth spurt. As many of you parents will know your child is happier and better able to function in their day to day life once they are well rested and fed!
The same may be true for teenagers. As they go through their next growth spurt many of the same principles apply as in the first few years of life. Teenagers will be more likely to thrive in a setting where they get regular nutrition, fluids ( water!) , exercise, sleep and support for their emotional wellbeing.
The sleep part can be challenging, and while we know the benefits of a good sleep routine, I am proposing that instead of spending hours in bed at any one time or spending sleepless nights or money on sleep aides and gadgets we encourage teenagers to nap!
I suggest 15-30 minutes – no longer as this may interfere with the natural circadian rhythm which regulates sleep. By setting an alarm clock for 30 minutes teenagers can have a nap after school in preparation for the evening’s activities! Encourage your teenager to nap and let me know how you get on!
