Syncing Your Kids' Sleep Schedules for School

By Amy McRee, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- School may be back in session, but many kid's still feel like they're on summer break, especially when it comes to sleep patterns. Getting your kids back into a normal sleep schedule is important.

Teach your kids the importance of sleep.

The keys to getting your kids back on track into a normal schedule are:

1. Get them into a steady routine, light snack, bedtime stories, signal it's time to wind down.

2. Avoid caffeinated drinks, especially after school, it will keep them up longer.

3. Promote a good sleep environment, cool dark room, no electronic distractions (cell phones, TVs, iPods)

Grade school children need at least 10 to 11 hours of sleep each night, as they age, 8 to 9 hours will suffice. Anything less can cause daytime sleepiness, grades to suffer, inattentiveness, even behavioral problems

If you're having trouble getting your child to wind down, a good trick is to have them lie in bed 10 minutes straight before getting up, you'll often find they'll tire out.

Get facts on getting a good night's sleep from the National Sleep Foundation.