Help your child sleep better before school starts!

I cannot WAIT for my kids to go back to school. BUT, I need to undo some bad summer habits before they start. Anyone else?! 😬 Ok, let’s do it together: As we start to think about the upcoming school year, I wanted to share some tips on helping your child get a good night’s sleep. We all know how important it is for our kids to be well-rested and ready to tackle each school day!

Here are a few simple ideas to help establish a healthy sleep routine before school starts:

Set a Consistent Bedtime: Anyone else been letting their kids stay up WAY too late this summer? 🙋🏻‍♀️ Start moving bedtime earlier by 15 minutes every few days leading up to the first day of school. This way it feels like less of a shock when they have to go to bed so much earlier than they have been this summer! Consistency is key to helping your child’s body adjust. Need help figuring out your child’s ideal bedtime? Email me, and I’d be happy to assist!
Get Back to That Bedtime Routine: Whatever your normal routine was before summer, let’s get back to it! At our house it’s dinner, bath/shower, play time (yes, play here is a link to my post about the benefits), brush teeth, books, then bed! Get back to your routine now so you aren’t fighting them the night before school starts!
Start to Limit Screen Time: I’m just as guilty of using the TV as a babysitter this summer! If you have trouble winding your kids down before bed, try to turn off electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime. (Swap out your bedtime routine with play time instead!) The blue light from screens can interfere with the natural production of melatonin, the hormone that makes us feel sleepy.
Ensure a Comfortable Sleep Environment: Make sure the bedroom is cool, quiet, and dark. A cozy bed and a favorite stuffed animal can also help your child feel secure and ready to sleep.
Be a Role Model: Children will mimic their parents’ habits. Show them the importance of sleep by prioritizing it yourself. The physical and mental health benefits of a good nights sleep are innumerable!

Establishing a good sleep routine now can make a big difference when school starts. A well-rested child is more likely to be attentive, perform better academically, and be in a better mood overall.

Wishing you and your family a smooth transition back to school! As always, reach out if you need any more help.

You got this!

-Elizabeth