Getting kids into bed at the “right” time isn’t just wishful thinking — one teacher is sharing her insight into how to set a bedtime that actually works during the school week. If your evenings have descended into nightly negotiations, here’s advice you might find helpful.
Why having a solid bedtime matters
A consistent evening routine signals to your child’s brain that it’s time to wind down. Over time, their body clock begins anticipating rest, making it easier to settle. A predictable bedtime also means fewer battles, less stress, and better sleep quality overall for both kids and parents.
What time should a child go to sleep?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, here’s a useful guide based on wake-up times and age:
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For younger children, bedtimes often need to be as early as 6:45 p.m. to 8:15 p.m., depending on when they’ll wake the next morning
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Older kids, like 11- and 12-year-olds, may need sleep windows between 8:15 p.m. and 9:45 p.m.
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A good rule: look at when they must wake up, subtract how many hours of sleep they truly need, and use that to set a bedtime
These are guidelines — each child may need more or less, depending on activity level, growth spurts, or temperament.
7 teacher-approved tips to make bedtime easier
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Begin the routine ahead of time
Don’t wait until the last minute. Dim lights, quiet activities, and cues that “bedtime is coming” help your child’s body shift into rest mode gradually. -
Wind it back gradually
If your child is used to staying up late, aim to move bedtime earlier in small steps—say 15 minutes per night—until you hit your target. -
Ban screens at least an hour before bed
The light and stimulation from devices can delay sleep hormones. If screens must remain, set “night mode” to reduce blue light. -
Make the bedroom sleep-friendly
Cool temperature (~18 °C), darkness, comfortable bedding — these simple things can signal “sleep time” to their mind. -
Stick with consistency
Even when life gets busy, try to keep the same bedtime each weekday. Predictability helps, especially on school nights. -
Watch for signs of over-tiredness
If your child takes too long to fall asleep, is cranky in the evening, or seems wired late at night, the bedtime might be off. -
Be flexible but firm
Every child has ups and downs. If the routine isn’t working, tweak it slightly—but avoid constant changes that confuse their internal clock.
Final thoughts for parents
Bedtime battles can wear anyone down. But with a thoughtful, steady approach rooted in consistency and understanding, you can build a schedule that works—not just for your child, but for the whole household.
