First grade students at California Avenue Elementary School took part in a sleep education program on March 23 designed to help them build healthy bedtime routines.
The event, held in partnership with Cohen Children’s Medical Center and the Beyond Bedtime initiative, included an assembly where students learned how consistent sleep habits support physical health and brain development.
“During the assembly, students learned how consistent bedtime routines support both physical health and brain development,” said Natasha Garrettt in a statement on March 31. “Our first-grade students also enjoyed a special read-aloud by Northwell Nurse Practitioner Andrea Orbon.”
Orbon said the partnership understands that sleep is fundamental to a child’s health, healing and development.
“We are committed to helping families build consistent, comforting bedtime routines that promote better health outcomes,” she said. “We provided sleep education to all students and donated pajamas and books to help create a sense of comfort and stability at bedtime.
These simple items can make a meaningful difference,” Orbon continued. “And allow an opportunity for connection between children and caregivers.”
Each student received a new pair of pajamas and a copy of “Sweet Dreams Ahead: Time for Bed” by Tish Rabe.
“Students were excited to bring their pajamas home,” Garrett said. “The experience reinforced the importance of sleep-in supporting growth and well-being,”
Garrett added that this work aligns with their core values of “excellence and safety.” The elementary school focuses on five core values for it’s students to incorporate in their everyday lives in and out of the classroom: respect, excellence, inclusivity, collaboration and safety.
The program focused on teaching students practical steps for establishing routines at home, including habits that promote better sleep and overall well-being.
Garrett thanked Superintendent Monique Darrisaw-Akil for making the opportunity and partnership possible.
By the end of the day, students were able to understand the R.E.A.D.Y. bedtime routine: relax, eat a healthy snack, aim for an 8 p.m. bedtime, don’t forget to wash up and change into pajamas, and yawn — lights out.
