Every year, back-to-school sneaks up on me. Suddenly, we’re knee-deep in packing lunch, late-night cheer practices, and stinky gym clothes. And in chaos, something always gets sacrificed. Usually? Sleep. But not this year!
This year, I’ve declared sleep our back-to-school priority. That means no more late-night math marathons or cheer practices that run into bedtime. We’re choosing rest—because well-rested kids (and parents) are simply better humans.
How I got Here – Prioritizing Sleep Changed Everything in Our House this Summer
I’ll admit it—I used to treat summer like one big free-for-all. Bedtimes were “suggestions,” screens were everywhere, and we were always cramming in “just one more thing.” But this summer, I decided to test a theory: What if we actually slept?
So we did. No more late-night chaos, no more overstimulation. Just earlier wind-downs and consistent bedtimes—for all of us. And you know what? The change was instant:
- Mornings got calmer (even with camp lunch-packing).
- There were fewer meltdowns (from both the kids and me).
- Everyone seemed… happier. More focused.
Best of all? I started getting a solid hour of peace to myself every night. Just me, the occasional glass of wine, a bad reality show, and the sweet sound of no one calling my name.
I felt like a calmer parent. According to the American Psychological Association, moms who get enough sleep are less stressed and more emotionally resilient. So technically, this is science-backed self-care.
Why Sleep Deserves a Spot at the Top of Your School Prep List, Too
We spend hours worrying about school supplies, organizing cute outfits, and packing Insta-worthy lunches—but we forget the one thing that actually helps our kids succeed: a good night’s sleep.
According to the CDC, kids aged 6–12 need 9–12 hours of sleep a night. Teens need 8–10. Most of them (and, uh, us) aren’t getting it. Here’s why that matters:
- Sleep improves memory and learning. Harvard research shows kids retain more information after sleep.
- It boosts mood and behavior. A well-rested kid is less likely to cry over the wrong color snack container.
- It strengthens immunity. No one wants that first-week-of-school cold.
So yeah, sleep isn’t a luxury for my family. It’s essential.
Sleep Over Homework: Controversial, But I Stand by It
I used to believe staying up late to finish studying for math or last-minute science project was just part of being a “good” student (and parent). But now? If it’s 8:30 p.m. and the homework isn’t done, then it’s not done.
Here’s why:
- Studies from the Sleep Foundation show that sleep deprivation affects focus and problem-solving skills—so tired brains won’t help on tomorrow’s math test anyway.
- Sleep helps with emotional regulation (a.k.a. fewer meltdowns).
- And let’s be honest, I need my evening wind-down too.
So yes, we do the best we can during the day—but come bedtime, it’s pencils down, PJs on.
Our Real-Life Sleep Goals (Spoiler: We’re Not Perfect)
This isn’t about being rigid or perfect—it’s about consistency-ish. Here’s what to aim for:
- Kids (6–12): 9–10 hours (ideally)
- Teen: 8+ hours (with some reality checks)
- Me: 7 hours minimum or I turn into a gremlin
We give ourselves grace. Life happens. But we aim to keep sleep as a top priority.
Tips That Help Us Actually Stick to Bedtime
We’ve figured out a few tricks to keep everyone on track—even during the madness of back-to-school:
No Phones in the Bedroom
I don’t care if it’s TikTok, Minecraft, or Pinterest—screens stay out. Blue light messes with melatonin, and bedtime scrolling = midnight chaos.
Create a Calm Wind-Down Routine
It doesn’t have to be elaborate. We keep it simple:
- Dim the lights
- Switch to quiet screen-free activities (reading, drawing)
- Start the “last call” for snacks and water around 7:30
Moms Need Sleep Too (And Alone Time Counts)
Let me just say it louder for the moms in the back: moms need rest too!
When I stopped letting the kids stay up late and then scrambled to get them into bed, it took way longer every night. There was more yelling, more frustration, and over-tired kids don’t always fall asleep easily. It was a mess every night.
When I first started, I had a consistent routine, and everything became easier. I became kinder, calmer. A little more fun.
I get more done in my evenings, because I’m doing my tasks alone (packing lunches, finding gym shoes, signing agendas and permission slips), usually with a podcast on, it feels like “me time.” Also, don’t underestimate what a kid’s bedtime of 7:30 p.m. can do for your marriage.
Let Sleep Be Your Family’s Superpower This School Year
We’re not giving up homework, friends, or sports—we’re just putting sleep first.
Here is how I’m doing it: I protect bedtime like it’s my job. A few tricks I swear by:
- I kindly asked our coach if my kid could join the earlier practice slot (they said yes—worth asking!).
- I only book extracurriculars that wrap up before 8 p.m., even if that means saying no to one more activity.
- Homework gets tackled right after school or during the quiet window before dinner—no more 9 p.m. math meltdowns.
- Write a quick note to the teacher. “Homework isn’t totally finished. We chose to prioritize it for getting a good night’s sleep. Thanks for understanding.”
We’re not skipping school responsibilities—we’re just keeping sleep a non-negotiable. The rest usually falls into place.
Since making this shift this summer, I’ve noticed:
- My kids are more focused and calm
- Our mornings are less frantic
- And I’m a way better version of myself
These are the reasons why I’m bringing this into the school year. Sleep is your free, science-backed secret weapon. Now if you’ll excuse me, it’s almost 9:00… and this mama’s got a date with her pillow.
