The summer vacation was fun and relaxed with its late nights and even later mornings. But now that school is back in session, establishing a healthy sleep schedule and re-setting the home routine for your kids is essential.
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Sufficient restful sleep boosts brain activity and ensures your child will happily participate in both activities and sport. Our children's health and readiness to fully engage is dependent on sleep as well as their growth and development.
The thought of creating a routine may be terrifying, but just like any habit, takes a few days to get used to and then it becomes a normal part of everyday life. A bedtime routine creates an atmosphere of security and comfort for your child because they know what to expect at the end of the day.
After setting a specific bedtime, realize that going from late nights to early nights will not happen in one day. A great way to ease your child into their earlier bedtimes is by making their room a comfortable and calm environment where they are not forced to sleep immediately but can relax until they are tired. It is wise to take away electronics and anything that would make them very active, and instead allow them to draw or read peacefully.
As the business of the school day kicks in and they start getting involved in more activities and sports, they will automatically start wanting to go to bed earlier, especially knowing that they have to wake up earlier. Something important to note is that if your child does come home very tired, rather than allowing them to nap, send them to bed earlier so they get maximum sleep and are not wide awake in the middle of the night.
Once your child is used to their sleep schedule, it is beneficial to stick with it, even on weekends. This recommendation was made by the National Sleep Foundation and will keep your child in a healthy and productive routine. Lastly, make sure their mattress is in great shape. Having a comfortable mattress makes it easier for anyone to look forward to bedtime and a good night's sleep. Not happy with your current mattress? Come visit us at Land of Sleep in downtown Sarasota where our trained sleep professionals are ready to help you and your loved ones.
Happiness is a sleep schedule that benefits the entire family!
