Sleep Routines Overlooked in Back-to-School
A 2026 survey finds many U.S. adults prioritize work, school, and family over sleep, risking their health as school routines resume.
A new survey warns that healthy sleep is often sacrificed to the demands of work, school, and family life. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) found that 32% of American adults say work and school schedules take priority over sleep. Another 42% report that family or household responsibilities are more important than getting enough rest. Experts caution that without a deliberate reset of routines, sleep will suffer with the return of early mornings, after-school activities, and late-night homework. Dr. Shalini Paruthi, a sleep medicine physician and AASM spokesperson, emphasized the need for planning, stating that 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.
Activities Valued Over Sleep
The survey, conducted online from June 5 to 13, 2025, with 2,007 U.S. Adults, identified several activities that many Americans rank above sleep. The margin of error for the poll is plus or minus 2 percentage points.
| Activity | Percentage of Adults Prioritizing It Over Sleep |
|---|---|
| Screen time with phone | 26% |
| Binge-watching shows or movies | 23% |
| Social activities or events | 23% |
| Exercise routine | 20% |
Recommended Sleep Durations
Consistent sleep is foundational for mental and physical health, especially for children and adolescents. The AASM provides clear guidelines for how much sleep different age groups require each night.
| Age Group | Recommended Sleep Duration |
|---|---|
| Adults | At least 7 hours |
| Children (6-12 years) | 9 to 12 hours |
| Teens (13-18 years) | 8 to 10 hours |
Strategies for Healthier Sleep Habits
The academy urges families to take concrete steps to protect sleep time as the school year begins. Setting bedtimes for adults as well as children is a key recommendation. Asking for help with household chores that cut into sleep is another practical tip. The AASM also advises setting aside 30 minutes to an hour before bed to wind down, even on busy nights. Preparing for the next day the night before can reduce morning stress. Packing lunches, laying out clothes, and organizing backpacks in advance helps cut down on the rush. If someone continues to struggle with sleep after implementing these strategies, the AASM recommends consulting a doctor. Effective treatments and management plans are available for persistent sleep issues. Dr. Paruthi stressed the importance of routine for young people, noting that setting a consistent bedtime routine is very important, especially for children, who need more sleep for overall health and wellness. The survey data suggests that without such planning, sleep is likely to be the casualty in the back-to-school rush.
