Start setting boundaries, early. About a month before the first day of school, set a bedtime and wake-up time. Then slowly move this time back in 15 minute increments until you reach the appropriate times for your child.

Get your child use to morning activities. Plan your final summer activities in the mornings and early afternoons. Putting more emphasis on the mornings will help your child become accustom to doing activities during the day (when they would be in school) rather than at night time.

Keep a routine. Stay consistent with bed time and wake time, even on the weekends. This will help children adjust easier to the new schedule.

Boys Town Pediatrics recommends elementary school children should get 10-12 hours of sleep. Pre-teen through high school youth should get 9-11 hours of sleep. This guide will vary for each individual child, but the most important thing parents can do is be consistent.

For more parenting tips, log on to www.boystownpediatrics.org.