How a Lincolnshire Sleep Practitioner is Helping Families Catch Some Much-Needed Zzz’s
- Mark@LincsLivesNatters
- Sep 29, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 4, 2024
In the latest episode of the #LincsLivesNatters podcast, Shelley nattered with Becky Jones, a sleep practitioner working right here in Lincolnshire. Becky is on a mission to help families get better sleep—something we all need but might not fully understand.
A 3AM Wake-Up Call—Literally!
Becky’s journey into sleep practice was inspired by her personal experience as a parent. Like many of us, she went through those exhausting early years when her youngest child woke up at 3 AM every morning. Becky and her husband, running on empty, had to get creative to survive the "3AM Club." But it wasn’t just about getting through the day—it was about understanding sleep better and finding long-term solutions. That’s when Becky decided to dive into sleep education.
“I realised there was a real lack of awareness about sleep,” Becky said. “It's something we all do, but few of us truly understand how crucial it is, especially for children.”
From Teacher to Sleep Expert
Becky didn’t stop at her own experiences. As a primary school teacher and SENDCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator), she noticed that many children, both with and without additional needs, were struggling with sleep. Parents would often come to her with concerns, unsure if their child’s behaviour issues were linked to sleep deprivation.
This lack of support and information in Lincolnshire drove Becky to take action. She became a qualified sleep practitioner, determined to help families deal with sleep challenges—one of the most overlooked aspects of health and wellbeing.
Is It ADHD or Just Lack of Sleep?
One eye-opening part of the interview was Becky’s insight into how sleep deprivation in children can mimic symptoms of behavioural disorders like ADHD. She explained how hyperactivity, emotional regulation issues, and struggles with learning could all be signs of a tired child, rather than an underlying condition.
“It’s shocking how similar sleep deprivation can look to ADHD,” Becky noted. “Parents and even professionals might misdiagnose, when actually addressing a child’s sleep habits could be the solution.”
Becky’s Top Tips for Better Sleep
Becky shared some valuable tips for parents struggling with their children’s sleep:
Create a Calming Bedtime Routine
Dim the lights and switch off screens at least an hour before bedtime. The goal is to signal to the body that it’s time for sleep by boosting melatonin production.
Consistency is Key
Ensure your child goes to bed at the same time every night, even on weekends, to establish a routine.
Watch the Content
If your child’s bedtime routine includes watching TV, make sure it’s something calming. Becky hilariously pointed out that Gladiators might not be the best choice—her kids were running around the house after watching it!
Sleep Associations
If your child relies on you to fall asleep, it might be time to introduce a cuddly toy or something else to help them drift off independently.
The 3AM Club: Support for Sleepless Nights
Becky’s work doesn’t stop at one-on-one consultations. She’s also running workshops in Grantham and online to educate parents on sleep hygiene, deprivation, and disorders like onset sleep association. But perhaps the most exciting development is the **3AM Club** WhatsApp community—a lifeline for parents up in the middle of the night, feeling like they’re the only ones awake.
“I wanted to create a space where parents can support each other, even at 3 AM,” Becky said. “It can feel incredibly isolating, but with the 3AM Club, they’ll know they’re not alone.”
What’s Next for Becky?
Becky has big dreams—literally! She hopes to see sleep education become part of the national curriculum, much like healthy eating is today. She’s convinced that if children understand the importance of sleep from a young age, they’ll carry those good habits into adulthood.
In the meantime, you can check out her workshops, online classes, and the 3AM Club. If you’re a sleep-deprived parent, you might just find the support you need.
If you want to learn more about her work or join the 3AM Club, you can follow her on social media or visit her website. Trust us, a good night’s sleep is just around the corner.
Listen to the full episode here
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