7 sleep tips for going back to school

Sleep is super important. Even more so in school-aged kids who need rest to help them concentrate, learn and enjoy themselves.

Holidays can break kids out of any sleeping habits they have during the school term, usually in unhelpful ways. As such these bad habits like staying up too late, or sleeping in too long, need to be broken before going back to school.

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Thankfully, SleepFoundation.org has put together these seven tips to help parents get their kids ready to go back to school.

1. Gradually Adjust their Sleep Schedule

One to two weeks before the start of school, begin to slowly change sleep and wake times to adjust the child’s biological clock.

2. Keep a Regular Bedtime (even on weekends)

This makes sure your child is getting enough sleep.

3. Have a Bedtime Routine

Obviously this will differ between a 5 year old and a 15 year old, but an age-appropriate bedtime ritual will help them wind down the same way every night.

4. A Good Sleep Environment

Make sure they are sleeping in a place that is cool, quiet, dark, and comfortable.

5. No Electronics in the Bedroom

Phones, TV and Video games in the bedroom are very unhelpful for sleep, especially if being used in the hour before bed.

6. Limit Caffeine

Especially in the afternoon.

7. Diet and Exercise

Make sure your child is active and eating well. This really helps with getting good sleep.

We hope this list is helpful for getting your kids ready to go back and make the most of school.

And as always, if you, or someone you know, is having trouble sleeping, then please talk to your GP, and get in touch with us to find out how we may be able to help.

Sleep Well - Live Well

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This blog post is from Keystone Medical Media, a sub-entity of Keystone Content.