Child reading book in bed under knitted blanket

Rested and Ready: How to Improve Sleep Before Going Back to School

July 20, 2023

As the summer days slowly wind down, parents and guardians gear up for yet another exciting back-to-school season.

While this time of year brings new opportunities and adventures, it also comes with the challenge of readjusting sleep schedules for children. Quality sleep is vital for children's growth, development, and overall well-being. To help ensure restful nights and a smooth transition to back to school, we've put together our top tips to help ensure your little ones are getting a restful night’s sleep.

Let's explore how you can support a peaceful slumber and prepare your little ones for the upcoming academic year. 

1. Unplug For Screen-Free Hour

Electronic devices emit blue light that can interfere with the natural production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. By avoiding screens such as smartphones, tablets, and televisions at least one hour before bedtime, children's bodies can better transition into a relaxed state, making it easier for them to fall asleep. By prioritising screen-free evenings, parents can help their children establish healthier sleep patterns, ensuring they wake up refreshed and ready for the day ahead.

2. Replace Screens With Calming Activities

Additionally, screen-free time allows for alternative bedtime activities. Reading a book is a wonderful alternative that not only stimulates the imagination but also helps to unwind the mind from the day's distractions. Similarly, encouraging calming hobbies, such as drawing, colouring, or simple crafts, can provide a soothing and meditative effect, allowing kids to release any pent-up tension and stress.

3. Unwind With A Magnesium Supplement

Magnesium plays a vital role in regulating neurotransmitters and hormones, including melatonin, which helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Additionally, magnesium has muscle-relaxing properties that can promote a sense of calm and relaxation, potentially reducing restlessness and aiding in falling asleep. Magnesium is available in many forms for children, including powder, chewable, bath flakes and sprays. See the full range available here.

4. Sweet Dreams With Aromatherapy

Harness the power of essential oils to create a serene environment that promotes relaxation and restful sleep. Our Kids Sleep Support collection includes gentle and child-safe essential oil blends. Diffusing lavender, mandarin, or frankincense oils in your child's bedroom can create a calming atmosphere that aids in falling asleep and staying asleep throughout the night.

5. Embracing Tranquillity With Flower Essences

Flower essences can support children's sleep by promoting relaxation and reducing feelings of restlessness. When taken before bedtime, it may help soothe nervousness, easing the transition into a more peaceful and restful state. By providing a sense of calmness and tranquillity, flower essences can contribute to a more relaxed bedtime routine, encouraging better sleep quality for children.

 

As you prepare your child for the upcoming school year, prioritising their sleep is crucial. By incorporating our tips into their bedtime routine, you can create a peaceful environment that promotes restful nights and a smooth transition back to school. 

Shop the full range of Kid’s Sleep Supports here.