Back-to-School Sleep Tips

As we continue to move into the rhythms of this new school year and (re)establish routines, it can be helpful to consider how we bring intentionality to these transitions; perhaps this looks like a morning goodbye ritual (I think of The Kissing Hand), a symbol of love tucked into a lunchbox, or a recommitment to a calm and predictable bedtime routine.

Back-to-School Sleep Tips

• As much as possible, maintain a consistent bedtime and wake time - even on the weekends

• Develop a nightly bedtime routine - this can include a warm bath, massage, and snuggling up to read together

• If “one more” requests are delaying bedtime, consider creating a ‘bedtime checklist’ that includes everything your dear one does before going to bed – it’s a good reminder for all that needs have been met when the time comes for lights out. If a request for “one more sip of water” comes as you’re trying to leave the room, you can confidently respond with: We took care of that already, sweetheart. I love you and will see you in the morning. Good night.

• Consistency is the magic word!

 And as parents, it always serves us well when we intentionally attend to our own sleep hygiene in order to maximize our daily dose of restorative rest.