As summer comes to a close many parents scramble to get children back on a back-to-school schedule. They set earlier bedtimes and begin getting kids out of their relaxed summer schedules and back into their routine.
However, many kids will be asking, "Can I have a later bedtime this year?" After all, they're entering into a new grade and often, they feel a little more sophisticated and responsible. And they may want to prove their older by staying up just a little later.
Deciding on a bedtime can be a little tricky. Put kids to bed too early and they're likely to stay in bed while wide awake. However, put them to bed too late and they'll have trouble waking in the morning.
If you're not sure whether or not to allow a later bedtime, consider establishing a contract. It can be a great discipline tool, especially for teens and tweens.
You can even create an electronic behavior management contract. Learn more by reading my interview with the creator of Bypact, a website that allows parents and teens to create contracts free of charge.