Preparing children for the new school year

[KARE 11 News, August 22, 2023] Back-to-school season is in full effect. That means some parents are looking for tips to help kids transition back to consistent bedtimes, early alarms and homework. Allina Health psychologist Sarah Paper, LP, PsyD was on KARE 11 Sunrise to share a few ideas to get students prepared for the upcoming school year.

Her suggestions include:

• Focus less on what time your kids go to sleep and more on what time they wake up. Waking them up earlier increases the chances of them being ready for an earlier bedtime at night.
• Start reintroducing breakfast meals that you normally prepare during the school year.
• Talk to them about what they find exciting about the upcoming school year. If they express fears or concerns, validate their feelings.

To set up an appointment with Sarah Paper, LP, PsyD, click here.