The holiday period is a time for freedom, and children’s sleep is often disrupted by the flexibility of summer schedules. But as summer draws to a close and the start of the new school year approaches, you can help your children to get back into the swing of things by applying these few tips!
Sleep: a fundamental element
Sleep is more than just a moment of rest; it’s fundamental to the proper development of children. Getting enough regular sleep is essential for cerebral, emotional and cognitive development. A good night’s sleep promotes concentration, learning and memory. So many reasons to take sleep seriously before the start of the new school year!
Eat earlier
About ten days before the start of the school year, start staggering your lunchtimes to avoid eating too late. Ideally, the evening meal should be eaten at least two hours before going to bed.
Move up bedtime
Children under the age of 10 need around 10 hours of sleep each night, so you can calculate their ideal bedtime based on the time they get up in the morning. Gradually move back the bedtime each day until you reach the desired time.
Reduce stimulating activities
Before going to bed, switch off the screens and concentrate on quiet activities such as music or reading. This transition time will help to mark the passage between the faster pace of the day and bedtime.
Create an environment conducive to sleep
Your child’s bedroom should be conducive to sleep, calm and comfortable, so that they feel safe and secure. Help your child prepare for bed by reducing noise and light: close the curtains, keep your voice low and limit the amount of commotion in the house.
Rediscover the evening ritual
Routines sometimes fall by the wayside on holiday, but it’s time to get back to good habits by re-establishing the evening ritual. Share some quiet time together, and take the time to read your child a story.
See also: Why and how to read a story to your child?
Turn the alarm clock back on
To gradually get back into a regular rhythm and avoid a sudden start to the new school year, reduce the number of late mornings and wake your child up a little earlier each day. Open the curtains to let in the daylight to help them get out of bed more naturally!
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