Preparing for UAE School Reopenings: Tips for Adjusting Children's Sleep Schedules

Aug 27, 2026

97 min

Aug 27, 2026 07:31

UAE schools reopen Monday: How to reset your child's sleep and wake them for school

## Schools Reopen in the UAE

As schools in the UAE prepare to reopen on Monday, many parents are facing the challenge of adjusting their children's sleep schedules. After a summer of late nights and relaxed routines, children who have been sleeping in until late morning will need to wake up much earlier for school.

## Expert Advice on Sleep Adjustment

Julie Mallon, a sleep expert with over 30 years of experience, advises parents not to blame themselves for disrupted sleep patterns. She suggests gradually shifting wake-up and bedtime earlier by about 15 minutes every few days, ideally starting a week before school begins. This gradual adjustment helps the body clock reset naturally.

## Morning Routine Tips

Mallon emphasizes the importance of starting with the morning routine. She recommends waking children slightly earlier, opening curtains to let in natural light, and encouraging movement and breakfast to signal the body clock to adjust.

## Waking Up Without Drama

Instead of abrupt wake-ups, Mallon suggests using light, gentle sounds, and movement to wake children. For teenagers, she notes that biological changes during adolescence naturally shift sleep patterns later, so patience and understanding are key.

## Sleep Needs and Screen Time

Children's sleep needs vary, with younger children requiring more sleep than teenagers. Mallon advises against strict targets and instead focuses on whether children are thriving and well-regulated. She also recommends limiting screen time before bed and keeping devices out of bedrooms overnight.

## Parental Strategies

Dubai mother Tabinda Nabil shares her approach of preparing the night before and maintaining a consistent routine. For single mother Nilufar Yuldash Abdugafarova, starting her day early and setting clear expectations helps manage mornings smoothly.

## Final Thoughts

Mallon reassures parents that they haven't done anything wrong over the summer. The focus should be on gradually finding a new rhythm, with consistency being more important than perfection. If persistent sleep issues arise, consulting a healthcare professional is advised.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents

LinkedIn X Facebook WhatsApp Telegram