Health agencies urge families to reset sleep routines before school term

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, in partnership with the national sleep charity Sleep Action, has issued practical advice for families to re‑establish healthy sleep habits as the summer holidays end and children return to school. The guidance stresses regular bedtimes and wake‑up times, limiting screen use before bed, creating a quiet, comfortable sleep environment and adapting routines for children with additional support needs. Consultant Catriona Milosevic noted that “even small changes to bedtime routines like setting a time for bed and dimming the lights can often make a positive difference.”

In the United States, UTHealth Houston sleep‑medicine physician Brandy J. McKelvy outlined similar recommendations, including the recommended sleep duration for school‑aged children (9‑12 hours) and teenagers (8‑10 hours). She advises families to begin shifting sleep schedules one to two weeks before school starts, maintain consistent bedtime rituals, keep bedrooms cool, dark and quiet, and avoid stimulating activities such as video games close to bedtime.