As stated by Dr. Sara Lappe in her recent U.S. News & World Report article, “The start of school is a critical time to get kids adjusted to a consistent sleep schedule. Most children become used to staying up a little later and sleeping in more frequently during the summer, but as school approaches it’s important to move bedtime up and get back into a routine.”
Of course, adequate sleep is essential for learning. And, sleep deprivation often results in inattentiveness, behavioral issues, poor grades and even depression.
The importance of a solid sleep schedule and adequate sleep simply can’t be overstated. According to WedMD, “Sleep is no less important than food, drink, or safety in the lives of children. Although this may seem apparent many of us actually do not allow our children to get the critical sleep they need to develop and function properly.” Scary words for parents everywhere!
But, what exactly is “enough” sleep for kids? The National Sleep Foundation guidelines suggest that requirements vary significantly by age:
- Preschoolers typically sleep 11-13 hours each night
- Children aged six to 13 need 9-11 hours of sleep
- Most teens need about 8½ to more than 9 hours
With school just around the corner, the need for adequate sleep is even more important. So, how to best get kids of all ages to sleep?
Here are five easy-to-implement back to sleep tips:
- Adjust the schedule gradually (start two weeks before the 1st day of school)
- Cut down on electronics (particularly before bedtime)
- Trick the brain with light (add room darkening curtains or shades)
- Limit sugar and caffeine intake
- Implement a wind down routine each evening
Follow these guidelines and soon your child will be… sleeping like a baby!
About Back to Basics Learning Dynamics, Inc.
Back to Basics Learning Dynamics offers over 125 unique educational services, the widest array of educational options in the tri-state area including: 1-on-1 tutoring in over 60 subjects, translating and interpreting in 21 languages, speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavior specialists, reading specialists, ELL teachers, homebound services, and psycho-educational testing. In addition, Back to Basics offers exceptional, 1-on-1 test prep for tests including the SAT, PSAT, SAT II, ACT, GRE, PRAXIS, GED, and HSEE. Back to Basics also offers summer school, original credit, and credit recovery, plus unique enrichment options and professional development. And, Back to Basics operates Nationwide’s only Department of Education-approved, 1-on-1 K-12 Private School in Wilmington, Nationwide.
