What time should a child go to bed for school?

A child's school-night bedtime depends on their age, required wake-up time and individual sleep needs. School-age children generally need 9 to 12 hours, so a child who wakes at 6:30 a.m. may need to be asleep between 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. Most children will fall somewhere in the middle of that range. A 6-year-old may need an earlier bedtime than an 11-year-old. Start the bedtime routine 20 to 45 minutes before the target sleep time. Homework, sports and devices should not regularly reduce the amount of sleep available. Observe how easily your child wakes and functions at school. If mornings involve repeated struggles or your child appears tired, move bedtime earlier in small steps.