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Dysorthography and sleep

Sleep plays an essential role in learning. During the night, the brain consolidates what it has learnt during the day. For a child with dysorthography, who makes a great deal of effort and tires quickly, good sleep is particularly important. Here is why, and how to help them sleep well. An ally that is often underestimated.

Sleep and memory

During sleep, the brain sorts and consolidates the information from the day. The words learnt and the rules practised settle into long-term memory. At night, the brain works.

A child who sleeps well retains what they have learnt better. Conversely, lack of sleep disrupts memorisation and concentration. Lack of sleep disrupts everything.

For a child with dysorthography, whose spelling memory is already fragile, this is an important issue. The stakes are high. See visual memory.

Sleep and fatigue

A child with dysorthography tires a great deal at school, as writing requires constant effort. They need restorative sleep in order to recover. Recovery is essential.

Lack of sleep worsens fatigue, irritability and difficulties with concentration. Mistakes increase, and so does frustration. Lack of sleep makes everything worse.

See dysorthography and fatigue. Rest is indispensable.

Regular routines

Regular bedtimes and wake-up times, including at weekends, help the body find its rhythm. Falling asleep is easier and sleep is of better quality. Consistency helps.

Sleep needs vary with age, but remain important throughout childhood and adolescence. These needs remain important.

Observe your child: if they are tired on waking or during the day, they may not be getting enough sleep. Observation is useful.

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A bedtime ritual

A calm ritual before bedtime helps children fall asleep: a bath, a story, a cuddle, gentle music. This soothing time allows them to unwind after the day. The ritual soothes.

Reading at night is particularly worthwhile: it relaxes and maintains the link with the written word. Night-time reading is ideal.

Avoid talking about homework or school difficulties just before bed. Bedtime should remain peaceful. See reading for pleasure.

Screens in the evening

Screens in the evening delay falling asleep, because of the light they emit and the excitement they provoke. Avoid them for at least an hour before bedtime. Screens delay falling asleep.

Do not leave a screen in the bedroom, to avoid temptation. The bedroom should remain screen-free.

See dysorthography and screens. Sleep benefits.

Homework and sleep

Homework that drags on into the evening can encroach on sleep. Set a time limit, and let the teacher know if the work is not finished. Sleep takes priority.

Sleep is more important than finished homework. A rested child will learn better the next day. A rested child learns better.

See organising homework. A time limit helps.

When to seek advice

If your child has trouble falling asleep, wakes often during the night or remains tired despite sleeping long enough, speak to your GP. Medical advice can be useful.

Sleep disorders can have various causes, and should be addressed. The causes are varied.

Anxiety related to school can also disrupt sleep. Anxiety may play a part. See dysorthography and anxiety.

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Questions that keep coming up

Why is sleep important for a child with dys ?

Sleep consolidates learning and allows recovery from the fatigue linked to the effort of writing. It consolidates memory.

How to help them sleep well ?

Regular routines, a calm ritual, no screens in the evening and homework that does not spill over into sleep. Consistency is the key.

When to seek advice ?

If sleep difficulties persist despite good habits. A GP can help.

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