Teaching the value of sleep should be as important as learning about healthy eating and exercise in schools, experts claim

For years teachers have agonised over how to keep tired children interested in class, now experts have come up with a solution - lessons in getting a good night's sleep.

Teaching youngsters the value of sleep should be as important as learning about healthy eating and exercise in schools, according to a group of doctors and specialists.

They argue that sleep is a basic human requirement, and necessary to remain physically, mentally and emotionally healthy.

A survey of more than 2,000 adults, commissioned by The Sleep Council, reveals that almost three-quarters of people (73%) believe children should be taught about the importance of a good night's sleep. And six in 10 (60%) said sleep education should be included in the national curriculum.

The findings show that eight in 10 adults (80%) recognise how important sleep is for a child to do well at school, but many have a lack of understanding about the subject.

Almost half of parents of children under five (58%) that were questioned did not know that a three-year-old needs 12 hours sleep.

And one third of parents (33%) did not know that six to 12-year-olds need 10 hours.

Independent sleep consultant Dr Neil Stanley said: "Sleep is a basic and fundamental human requirement and is vitally important for good physical, mental and emotional health. It's crucial for memory, learning and growth which means that it is necessary for children to get enough sleep."

A spokesman for the Department for Children, Schools and Families said: "It has always has been, and will always remain, the job of parents and carers to ensure children get a good night's sleep.

"But schools can also play a part in ensuring children have the right knowledge to make healthy, informed choices about their mental and physical well-being. The personal, social, health and economic curriculum will help young people learn about dealing with emotions, a balanced diet, the benefits of exercise and other issues which all contribute to a healthy lifestyle."