From the Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing

Time For A Break

Before the September holidays I wrote about the benefits of children being bored. Recently I read an article by Susan Stiffelman writing about How Much Alone Do Children Need?

Before we begin our Summer holiday break, I thought I’d share a few things I noted from this article.

The idea of our children having time alone often goes against our sensibilities as parents. Today we often think more is better – more activities, more clothes, more toys, more stimulation. But the human brain does need quiet and rest. There are many studies about the benefits of sleep but what about when we are awake?

The modern trend in raising children tends to enrich their lives with many activities and stimulation, often leaving children stressed and stretched thin, without any downtime. There are benefits to having time out, stopping the busyness and noise, allowing time for quiet and solitude.

Many children, from the time they are small, will engage in quiet activities such as drawing or reading after a cognitively or interpersonally demanding task. Young children typically use solitary time to process overwhelming feelings and, as they get older, their capacity for solitude and introspection begins to increase and so does their need for quiet moments.

I am sure most of you have seen a teenager with headphones on or a hood covering their face. Even in small spurts, solitude serves a purpose. There is a reason adolescents are renowned for hiding in their rooms; during their period of great self-exploration, alone time helps them to figure out who they are apart from family and peers.

We all need respite from the constantly demanding frantic stimulation of daily life. This is true for adults as well as children, especially at this time of the year.

So, make use of the holidays to give your children the time and space to be in their own presence and connect with their inner selves. The benefits can be endless.

And while you’re at it, take a little time alone for yourselves!

– Joanne Sharpe
Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing