Grace Jacobson / News Director

August is National Back-to-School Month.

Wright County Health & Human Services offered some tips to parents and children for a great school year:

• Get plenty of rest. Roll bedtime back in 15-minute increments for an easier transition. At least a week before school starts, start an earlier bedtime routine. Children between the ages of five and 12 years of age need nine to 12 hours of sleep each night.
• Avoid electronics at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light from the screens can affect our bodies to “turn off” for the day and rest. 
• Create a bedtime routine. This helps children wind down for the day and readies the body for sleep. Read a book, talk about the day, plans for tomorrow, snuggle, try some light stretching etc. 
• Try to limit caffeine and/ or sugary items in the evening. These items can create excitability, which makes it more difficult to calm down.
• Set clothes out the night before. Children like to be involved in planning their day.  Ensuring that you are prepared creates a less stressful morning.
• Eat a healthy breakfast. 
• Attend school every day, unless you are ill, or an emergency arises.