Why your kids need more sleep now, even before school starts

As families look ahead to a new school year, children need to get into smart and healthy sleep routines sooner rather than later. Here's expert insight and advice for parents.

Limit the schedule of activities in the evening, such as sport games, appointments and lessons that can influence kids' sleep patterns. "Everyone is different in how much sleep they require, but in general, younger children need more sleep." "Transitioning to an earlier schedule is helpful prior to the start of school."

"Sleeping the number of recommended hours on a regular basis is associated with better health outcomes including improved attention, behavior, learning, memory, emotional regulation, quality of life, and mental and physical health," said the American Academy of Sleep Medicine in a consensus statement.