The website contains lesson suggestions and ideas for each grade level for working on the theme of sleep and relaxation during a week or at other times throughout the school year.

The following can be found for the lower, middle and upper grades:

  • a video with a relaxation exercise;
  • a general lesson about sleep;
  • a sleep diary or mood board;
  • several lesson suggestions on the theme of sleep and relaxation.

For the upper grades, there is a separate video with an exercise that can help prevent a blackout, for example during a test. It is also useful later in secondary education.

What do you notice in the classroom?

Every child experiences stress or sleep deprivation from time to time. If this remains limited, it is not a problem. However, when it becomes more structural, it can become a problem. A child with a structural lack of sleep and/or a lot of stress may display the following behavior:

  • poor concentration, resulting in reduced academic performance or a greater likelihood of an accident during physical education;
  • becoming irritated, angry or even aggressive more quickly;
  • displaying risky behavior (when playing outside, but also smoking);
  • being tired and ‘slouching’ in class.

In addition, a child is at greater risk of:

  • becoming ill;
  • developing overweight or even diabetes, due to increased snacking;
  • developing bags under the eyes and looking unwell.

What can the school do?

Teachers often think that there is nothing you can do at school about sleep and relaxation and that it is something for home. But that is certainly not true. Schools can definitely do a number of things.

  • Consider the message that is conveyed, consciously or unconsciously, in connection with (Cito) tests.
  • Find out whether all pupils can feel safe at school. Resolve disputes before the pupils go home.
  • Consider the performance pressure coming from the school. This does not have to be verbal, but may also be embedded in the system and in competitive elements.
  • Ensure that pupils get enough daylight. This helps them wake up.
  • Ensure that pupils get enough exercise outdoors, including in winter.
  • Restrict the use of WhatsApp groups that are used until late at night.

Making it open for discussion

When there is a suspicion of high levels of stress or a lack of sleep, it is advisable to make this open for discussion. Check with the pupil whether the suspicions are correct. If so, talk to the parents to find out where the problem lies. Explain what you notice in the classroom and discuss whether and how the parents want to address it. If the parents need help for their child, refer them to the JGZ or their general practitioner. They can, if necessary, refer the child to a sleep exercise therapist.

The website uitgerustindeklas.nl provides tips for talking to parents and for addressing the topic of sleep and relaxation in a more structural way.