Set a bedtime and stick to it. Some parents say their most difficult battles involve bedtime. When our daughter was younger, she could think of dozens of reasons — usually good ones — to stay up extra minutes. Those “minutes” translated into an hour or more many nights. Sleep is important in providing physical rest for the body and renewal for the mind. Studies show kids need around 10 hours of sleep each night. Be firm about enforcing a reasonable bedtime. You may even notice an improvement in grades and attitudes.

Avoid overscheduling. Many great opportunities are available to our children: art lessons, ballet, gymnastics, karate, orchestra, band, cheerleading, church activities, sports, sports and more sports. Set limits on how many activities your children participate in at one time. Teach them now to make choices and set priorities so every day of the week doesn’t involve going somewhere and doing something.

Preserve family time. If you aren’t intentional about reserving some time just for family, you may go for weeks without having everyone together for more than a few minutes. Sometimes going out to eat is a good way to extract everybody from the phone or other technology and have an uninterrupted conversation. Family time can also happen with a hike in the woods or stargazing in the backyard. Recently, we went to bed early and got up at 4:30 to wrap up in blankets on our deck and watch a meteor shower.

Let your children see you take it easy. Children model what they see. If we are constantly on the go, our children get the message that they should do likewise. A day to read, reflect, nap or play board games shouldn’t be considered a waste.

None of us can be our best mentally, emotionally or physically when we’re fatigued. Try slowing the pace and help your children do the same. Then enjoy the rewards of a less stressful lifestyle.