Healthy back to school tips [Video]

There’s lots to do to get your kids ready to return to school. From clothes to supplies to food, the list can seem endless. Add the challenge of getting everyone back on a “school night” schedule. As Consumer Reports explains, back to school is a great time to introduce healthier choices that benefit everyone in the family.

Start a new school night sleep schedule about two weeks before the first day. Begin setting alarms back about 15 minutes earlier each night until you reach what will be the new normal very soon.

And while we’re talking alarms, if it’s on a phone or tablet, set it, then forget it. Personal devices should be turned off well before bedtime. Smartphones, tablets, and laptops emit blue light, which can disturb kids’ sleep patterns.

Creating a dark sleeping environment can also help. CR’s editors recently looked at blackout curtains. Gracie Oaks Olivia Signature Velvet Blackout Curtainsearned a perfect score …