Back-to-school rush threatens family sleep
A 2026 AASM survey reveals that work, school, and family duties are prioritized over sleep by many Americans, with experts warning that the return to
A new survey warns that the back-to-school season will likely harm the sleep of American families. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) found that everyday demands consistently take priority over healthy sleep.
About one in three American adults, or 32%, say work and school schedules are more important than sleep. More than two in five, or 42%, say family or household responsibilities come first. The online survey of 2,007 U.S. adults was conducted from June 5 to 13, 2025, and has a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points.
Experts say this means sleep will suffer with the onset of early morning drop-offs, after-school activities, and late-night homework unless families reset their routines.
When I'm trying to sleep
The survey identified several activities that many Americans value more highly than getting enough rest. Screen time on phones was prioritized by 26% of respondents. Binge-watching shows or movies and social activities or events were each chosen by 23%. Another 20% said their exercise routine was more important than sleep.
Dr. Shalini Paruthi, a sleep medicine physician and AASM spokesperson, emphasized the need for a structured transition. "Making an intentional shift from summertime habits to more regimented school-year habits can be difficult, which is why the AASM encourages starting the transition as soon as possible," she said in a news release.
Recommended sleep program
The AASM provides clear guidelines for how much sleep different age groups need. Adults should get at least seven hours each night. Children aged 6 to 12 need nine to 12 hours of sleep. Teenagers aged 13 to 18 require eight to 10 hours.
To help families protect this important sleep time, the academy issued several recommendations. They advise setting bedtimes for adults as well as children. Families should ask for help if household chores are cutting into sleep. It is also important to set aside 30 minutes to an hour before bed to wind down, even on busy nights. Packing lunches, laying out clothes, and organizing backpacks the night before can cut down on the morning rush.
Dr. Paruthi stressed the particular importance for children. "Setting a consistent bedtime routine is very important, especially for children, who need more sleep for overall health and wellness," she said.
Seeking help for sleep
The AASM states that if a person continues to struggle to get healthy sleep, they should see a doctor. Effective treatments and strategies are available. The organization's advice highlights that sleep is a foundational component of mental and physical health, especially during the demanding back-to-school period.
