Primary School Updates (27 May 2022)

Key Dates 

Weekly update from Head of Primary

Dear Parents,

As the weather heats up in Hanoi, I would like to take the opportunity to remind everyone that all students need to bring a hat every day to school. Although we have wonderful new shading in the Primary playground with UV protection, wearing a hat outside is really important, especially on the football field. We also advise parents to ensure children are wearing sunscreen every day, to protect their skin and bringing a water bottle every day to ensure they stay hydrated.

There has been a focus on the importance of looking after our minds and wellbeing as well as our physical selves during Mental Health Week at BIS. For children, the most important thing they need after water and a balanced diet is a good night’s sleep every night.

Children aged 3-5 years, should be getting 10-13 hours’ sleep per day, including naps. Whilst those aged 6-13, they need 9-12 hours per night. Scientific research makes clear that sleep is essential at any age. Sleep powers the mind, restores the body and fortifies virtually every system in the body.

Why is sleep important for children?

Sleep plays a crucial role in the development of young minds In addition to having a direct effect on happiness. Research shows that sleep impacts on alertness and attention, cognitive performance, mood, resilience, vocabulary acquisition.

We can’t, as parents and educators, underestimate the power of good sleep for your children every night. We have seen the difference it makes in students in the classroom and on their attainment. Earlier in the year we ran some sleep workshops for parents in collaboration with Family Medical Practice and will run them again in our autumn Parent Workshop Series. In the meantime, switch off the screens at least half an hour before bed, settle down with a book in a quiet, low lit room and practice getting a good nights’ sleep!

Have a great weekend.

Rebecca Carroll 

Head of Primary

Key Dates

• Friday 10 June: BIS Rising Stars Talent Show (Primary)

• Friday 24 June: Final Day of the School Year