The hustle and bustle of getting your kids ready (whether big or small) is starting now. Summer is winding down and the planning of supplies, clothes, overall logistics of back to school starts to kick in. Now is also the time to start thinking about your child’s sleep making sure they’re entering a new year fully rested and ready to learn. A well-rested child can concentrate better and handle the full days of school easier the first few weeks. Here’s three things I always recommend to parents to start prepping before the bell rings when it comes to sleep…
1. Start Bringing Back Bedtime and Routine. We all know how routine is usually out the window when it comes to summer. Vacations, late nights, overnight camps, etc. No matter what age your child is try focusing on an earlier bedtime and consistent bedtime routine at least a week or two leading up to school. By inching bedtime earlier, your child will have a little more sleep in their sleep bank by the time the first day of school comes around. Bonus…a better rested child makes those early mornings a little easier.
2. Plan Out Sleep. In addition to adding in an earlier bedtime a week or two leading up to school, plan out any transitions you may have to make. For example, if you have a child starting school for the first time who usually naps every day, plan head and look to transition them out of their nap so they are little more adjusted when school starts. Or, if your older child has enjoyed taking a nap here or there throughout the summer it’s time to cut it out. Are your kids sleeping in too long? Try waking earlier leading up to school so it’s not so much of shock to their system when school starts.
3. Bedroom Audit. Take a look at your child’s bedroom. Has technology creeped in over the summer months? Now’s a good time to start limiting tech and eliminate from the bedtime routine before school starts. Also take a look at their rooms – does it need a post-summer de-clutter or organization to bring it back to a calming, sleep-promoting space?
Overall, back to school can be exhausting for everyone. Don’t let sleep take a back seat and get a start now on creating a well-rested child for an easy transition.
Liane Mamo is sleep consultant with Good Night Sleep Site Ottawa and a mother of a smart, fun-loving, creative toddler. Follow Liane on Facebook or Twitter for daily sleep tips and advice.
Good Night Sleep Site is a Family and Pediatric Sleep Practice ready to provide you with emotional and educational support to help your baby or child with their sleep needs.
