Sleep Experts Urge Families to Re-establish School-Year Routines for Students
In Raleigh-Durham (Fayetteville), sleep experts are advising families to re-establish school-year sleep routines as students prepare to return to classrooms after summer break.
Raleigh Durham, NC, August 19, 2026 —
As the summer break winds down, sleep experts in the Raleigh-Durham area, including Fayetteville, are emphasizing the importance of re-establishing consistent sleep schedules for students. With the upcoming return to classrooms, a gradual transition back to school-year sleep routines is being recommended to help students adjust smoothly.
The shift from a relaxed summer schedule, often characterized by later bedtimes and wake-up times, to the more structured demands of the academic year can be challenging for both children and adolescents. Experts advise that starting this adjustment process several weeks before school begins can significantly mitigate the difficulties associated with the transition.
Key recommendations from sleep specialists include:
- Gradually adjusting bedtime: Begin moving bedtime earlier by 15-30 minutes every few days, rather than making a drastic change the night before school starts.
- Modifying wake-up times: Similarly, gradually adjust wake-up times to align with the school day schedule.
- Creating a relaxing bedtime routine: This could involve activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or light stretching, signaling to the body that it is time to wind down.
- Limiting screen time before bed: The blue light emitted from electronic devices can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. Experts suggest a screen-free period of at least one hour before bedtime.
- Ensuring a conducive sleep environment: The bedroom should be dark, quiet, and cool to promote optimal sleep.
The uninterrupted return to school-year sleep patterns is believed to positively impact students’ academic performance, mood, and overall well-being. Adequate sleep is crucial for cognitive functions such as concentration, memory, and problem-solving, all of which are essential for success in school.
Families are encouraged to prioritize sleep hygiene and make it a family effort, setting a consistent example for children. By proactively addressing sleep routines, experts hope to help students start the new academic year feeling rested and prepared to learn.
Story summarized from the original created by Bianca Holman on abc11.com, see more information here.
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