On the Edge of Sleep-Deprivation

Sleep-deprivation is a given in our "open 24-hours a day" culture. As the daily pace increases, sleep is now considered a luxury rather than a necessity. Many of us under-sleep by choice, reasoning that more time awake will lead to greater productivity when, in fact, just the opposite occurs. After 17 hours of sustained wakefulness (6 a.m until 11 p.m.), our ability to react and respond equals someone with a .05% blood alcohol level.

Almost all adults need between 7 and 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep. Teens need 9.25-10 hours, school-aged children need 10 hours and preschoolers require 12-14 hours of sleep each day. Parents must not only set a good example by getting enough sleep, but we must ensure that our children do as well.

But what does sleep, or lack of it, have to do with the children and parents of OCC? Consider what sleep deprivation does to the body. Many studies conclude that lack of sleep causes concentration problems, stress, and anxiety. As the sleep deficit increases, health deteriorates, learning suffers, and irritability increases. Is that what we want for our children, for ourselves?

How can we enjoy to our child's sense of wonder and excitement in the ordinary if we are too tired to show interest? Can we provide our children with meaningful real world connections if we are distracted and irritable?

Fall is the perfect time to reevaluate what we do, how we choose to spend our time, and what kind of example we wish to set. As we become well-rested families, we may all find time to see the dew drops clinging to a spider web and see the rainbow in the puddle. We might also savor the quiet comfort of a "Good night" hug.

As we join our children in the moment, let's not sleep through it!