BACK TO SCHOOL SLEEP SCHEDULE
I don’t need to tell you that summertime is the time of the year when we parents let our kids stay-up/sleep-in later than they normally do. But alas, early mornings are right around the corner! There is still time though to get your kids (and ourselves) quickly back on a school sleep schedule. Here are our three tips from Dr. Stephanie Walsh, medical director of Child Wellness at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta:
- Develop a Relaxing Nighttime Routine
What’s the best way to wake up on the right side of the bed? Start the night before! Whether it’s a bath, reading a book, or listening to soothing music, every child has things that help them relax before going to sleep.
- Power Off
The hour before bed should be a no-electronics zone. Studies show the light from back-lit electronics (like tablets, smartphones, and video games) can disrupt our ability to fall—and stay—asleep. Designate a spot in your home for electronics to be plugged in, and have your kids start their bedtime routine by plugging in one hour before lights out!
- Get Up and Get Outside!
The best way to shake off summer slumber is to get some sunshine! So on those first days of your new routine, have the kids start their day by watering the flowers, walking the dog or having a healthy breakfast on the patio—anything that exposes them to daylight first thing.
For more tips on getting back on a good sleep schedule and other tips for being healthy, go to http://www.strong4life.com
What do you do to get your help your kids get ready for earlier wake up times? How is everyone feeling about the quickly approaching school year?
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