As the summer winds down and days become shorter, we come to the realization that the school year is quickly approaching. This also means that those summer nights staying up late will quickly catch up to us if we don't adjust our nightly routine sooner rather than later, especially for kids. There are a number of sleeping tips and hacks that will not only improve your sleep, but have you feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on the day’s tasks by morning—school prep and drop off lanes included.

By following the tips for better sleep below, you can help set your family up for better nights’ sleep that you’ll all benefit from this busy fall season and the rest of the year around.

1. Stick to a Schedule: The key to a successful nighttime routine is consistency. Sticking to the same schedule when waking up and going to bed every day of the week helps regulate your body's clock and could help you both fall and stay asleep at night.
2. Bedtime Ritual: When going to bed, try out a relaxing routine. An activity away from the bright lights will help you both unwind and help prep your body for a night full of sleep. A warm bath or calming meditation while relaxing in bed helps clear your mind and soothe your body to sleep.
3. Evaluate your Room: When decorating your master bedroom, you want to make sure you do so in a way that will feel both tranquil and comfortable. Calming wall decor will do just this, as it adds a touch of personal flair and brings a peaceful feeling to your space. Keep your room free of clutter and chaos through the use of shelves and storage bins. Blackout curtains are guaranteed to keep any light out, which is nice towards the end of summer when it is still bright out as you put the kids to bed. Another hack is a white noise machine or fan, which helps many fall asleep and stay asleep all night.
4. Limit Screen Time: It is no surprise, as studies have shown, that screen time before you go to bed negatively affects sleep. A common misconception is that screen time affects children more than it does adults, which isn’t the case. Screen time often results in cognitive stimulation, which makes it harder to relax and shift into sleep mode. There have also been studies conducted on the blue light produced by electronics, which can impact melatonin production. For those who aren’t familiar, melatonin is the hormone that regulates the wake-sleep cycle, which is the cycle that tells our body when it is time to go to sleep, as well as when it’s time to wake up. For a better night’s sleep, try limiting screen time in the evening hours.
5. Mattress Magic: The most important factor to a good night’s rest is a comfortable mattress. When looking for a mattress, you want to look for one that is both comfortable and supportive. There are many types of mattresses that will fulfill your bedtime needs, such as a traditional innerspring mattress, which comes in many firm, medium and soft options. Memory foam mattresses are a popular option as they effortlessly adjust and conform to your body. If you are experiencing inconsistent sleep or aches and pains in the morning, it may be time to purchase a new mattress, as they only have about a 9-year life expectancy.
6. Pillow Talk: Nothing plays better with the perfect mattress than with a luxurious pillow. Greatly consider your sleeping position when finding the best pillow for you. Side sleepers should choose a thicker, firmer pillow, as it offers more neck support. Stomach sleepers often prefer a more soft, flat pillow, while back sleepers may choose a medium pillow. Choosing a pillow that benefits your sleeping position and is free of allergens will ensure a full night’s rest. Learn more about choosing a pillow according to your sleep position here.
7. Tangible Temperature: Design a sleep environment to establish conditions you need for sleep. Your bedroom should be cool and free from any noise so that your sleep is not disturbed. Along with keeping the room at a comfortable temperature, there are also many mattresses, pillows and even bedding that promote a cool feel to maximize comfort as you sleep.

Start the school year off on the right foot by resetting your sleep schedule over the tail end of summer. Make this school year great by getting your nighttime routine on track. By following these easy tips for better sleep, you and your kids will not only feel more energized by morning but may even up that performance in the classroom as well.