20 / 80 connect communit y early bedtimes & mental health we all know stress is real when even our kiddos are getting stressed. to help alleviate some of that stress, making sure they are getting more sleep is crucial. however, a recent study found that parents who were strict on an earlier bedtime for their little ones were also less stressed. the growing up in australia study tracked 3,600 youth during the first nine years of their lives. the results showed that kids who were asleep by 8:30 p.m. were happier and healthier, and the same was reported for their parents, too. why? the moment the kiddos are in the bed, mom has more time for herself. while there are always things to do, this special time allows mom to wind down and do things she wants to do. american