If your child is heading into kindergarten or school, sleep is one of the biggest invisible boosters you can give them. Research shows that children who consistently sleep 10+ hours every night before starting kindergarten do noticeably better socially, academically, and behaviorally throughout their whole school year. It's not just about getting *enough* sleep — it's about getting it *regularly*. Your child's brain uses sleep to process learning, regulate emotions, and build confidence. School-age children need 9–12 hours nightly, and while school schedules can make this challenging, research suggests prioritizing bedtime really does set them up for success. If school starts early in your area, talk to your pediatrician about realistic bedtimes that work for your family.