Back to school bedtime tips every parent needs to know
The summer holidays always seem to fly by, and before we know it, the school run is back on the horizon. While new uniforms, lunchboxes and stationery usually top the back-to-school checklist, there’s one thing parents often overlook: sleep routines.
After weeks of late nights, lie-ins and long summer days, getting kids back into a steady routine can feel like a challenge. The good news? With a few simple steps, you can make the transition smoother, help them get the rest they need, and create a cosy sleep space they’ll love heading to at bedtime.
Here are our top tips for easing your little ones back into school mode:
1. Reset sleep routines gradually
Don’t wait until the night before school starts to set that alarm clock! Start adjusting bedtime and wake-up times a week or two before. Move bedtime earlier by 10–15 minutes each night, and do the same with wake-up time in the morning. This gentle shift makes early starts feel far less of a shock.
2. Create a calming bedtime ritual
Bedtime routines are magic for kids. Try a warm bath, a bedtime story, or a few minutes of calm music to help them wind down. Switching off screens at least an hour before bed is key - blue light can interfere with melatonin (the sleep hormone), making it harder to drift off.
3. Make their bedroom a sleep haven
The environment plays a huge role in how easily children fall asleep. A tidy, comfortable space with minimal distractions works wonders. Fresh bedding can also make bedtime something to look forward to - our award-winning Bloomsbury Mill bedding sets are soft, breathable, and available in a range of fun, vibrant designs that kids love.
To complete the look (and block out early morning light), our coordinating curtains make bedrooms both practical and stylish. A cosy, inviting room = a better night’s sleep!
4. Keep mornings stress-free
Lay out uniforms the night before, pack school bags, and make sure water bottles and lunchboxes are ready to grab and go. The fewer things you need to think about in the morning, the smoother the school run will be for everyone.
5. Fuel their day with a good breakfast
Sleep and nutrition go hand in hand. A balanced breakfast - think porridge, fruit, yoghurt or eggs - helps kids stay alert and energised for the school day ahead.
6. Don’t forget comfort & reassurance
For little ones who might feel anxious about the return to school, small rituals - like choosing their bedding design together or picking a “first day” outfit - can give them something positive to focus on.
Back-to-school season doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a consistent routine, a calm sleep space, and a little preparation, your child will be rested, ready, and excited for the term ahead.
At Bloomsbury Mill, we know how much a good night’s sleep matters - so we design bedding and curtains that are easy-care, durable, and loved by kids of all ages. Explore our full collection and find the perfect set to help your family settle back into routine with ease.