A typical day at Forest school involves a lot of physical activity, running, jumping and climbing. Young children may need to have a sleep to re-energise.
Sleep provides much needed energy and brain power. A well rested child is able to better concentrate on their play and positive interactions with others.
So how do children sleep at The Happy Homestead?
In winter months, children sleep in cots or low sleeper beds inside our cosy cabin. Each child will have their own sheet and blanket to use.
During the Summer months, the children will sleep in the great outdoors on the low sleeper beds or in a hammock. When necessary children will be sheltered from the sun under a canopy.
A staff member will sit with them to make sure they are supervised during sleep, both indoors and outdoors.
We try as much as possible to encourage the same sleep times that children follow at home so that it doesn’t disrupt their routine.
What are the benefits of sleeping outside?
Sleeping outside can help to replenish your oxygen levels. Oxygen levels in your brain boosts serotonin, the happiness chemical in our bodies, which enhances our mood. Sleeping outside is said to link to increase brain activity leading to better focus and improved memory.
It can also bring a sense of calm as the children spend time relaxing outside listening to the soothing sounds of nature, such as the sound of birds chirping. It is sensory as the feel the warmth of the sun and feel the gentle breeze on their faces.
Children rediscover their natural side by immersing themselves in nature while they sleep. This allows children to become more in tune with nature’s light-and-dark cycle, the difference between day and night.