Allegheny Health Network pediatricians are urging parents and caregivers to establish healthy routines as children return to school.
The advice emphasizes the importance of sleep, limited screen time and up-to-date vaccinations, according to a community announcement.
Sleep plays a key role in academic and social success, according to new research published in Psychological Medicine.
Researchers found that sleep quality was most strongly associated with improved academic performance and healthier peer relationships among several lifestyle factors studied, including screen time, exercise and diet.
"Back-to-school season is the perfect time for families to re-establish healthy habits," Dr. Joseph Aracri, chair of the AHN Department of Pediatrics, said
in the announcement. "A consistent sleep schedule is one of the most important things parents can do to support their child's health — children who get enough high-quality sleep are able to better focus at school, regulate their emotions and maintain healthy relationships with friends. It’s a foundational part of a healthy routine that makes a significant difference."
Parents are advised to gradually adjust sleep schedules
The transition from summer to the school year can be challenging, especially when later bedtimes and increased screen use have become the norm during summer break, Aracri said.
Experts recommend gradually shifting bedtime and wake-up schedules one to two weeks before school begins, creating screen-free bedtime routines and ensuring children get age-appropriate sleep each night. Most children need a minimum of nine hours each night.
In addition to sleep, AHN pediatricians encourage families to ensure children are up to date on vaccinations, limit recreational screen time and focus on healthy nutrition and social connections.
The announcement also advises parents to watch for signs that a child may be struggling emotionally, such as persistent changes in mood, sleep, appetite or social engagement.
This article by Gabby Sartori was created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Allegheny Health Network gives back to school guidance for parents
