GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – Most kids will be heading back to school in less than a month and that means earlier bedtimes and new routines.
Dr. Amy Romandine-Kratz, primary care sports medicine physician at Prevea, says now is the perfect time to start implementing new habits.
“Get started now and slowly start to adjust kids to getting back into a routine, their school bedtime, their regular wake-up time for school and the first day will be a lot less stressful in easier to get them going,” said Romandine-Kratz.
She says it’s important to start bedtimes two weeks before school starts so kids will have time to adjust.
Doctors recommend 9-11 hours of sleep for kids 6-13 years of age
Teenagers should be getting 8-10 hours per night.
Anxiety is also common among kids when starting a new school or grade.
Romandine-Kratz has suggestions on combating those fears.
“Most schools will have open houses. Make sure your kiddos know where they’re going. There’s usually opportunities to meet teachers. Go over your safety plans with them incase you get home late from work.”
Another thing parents might not thing about is your child’s caffeine intake.
“Especially after lunchtime because that’s going to be affecting their sleep. It can be in your system for 8+ hours,” Romandine-Kratz said. Find more back to school tips at www.prevea.com.
