Do you struggle to get your child to go to sleep when you say so? We know what that’s all about, as most of us are parents ourselves! Being a parent comes with a huge amount of responsibility and with that requires patience, tolerance and the knack for finding a routine that works best for you and your child.
We figured we would talk a bit about this topic, as it’s every parents’ challenge to get their child to go to bed without their pleading and begging to give the dog just one last kiss, or go get another sip of water, or even still, play one more level of their game.
Do you struggle to get your child to go to sleep when you say so? We know what that’s all about, as most of us are parents ourselves! Being a parent comes with a huge amount of responsibility and with that requires patience, tolerance and the knack for finding a routine that works best for you and your child.
We figured we would talk a bit about this topic, as it’s every parents’ challenge to get their child to go to bed without their pleading and begging to give the dog just one last kiss, or go get another sip of water, or even still, play one more level of their game.
It’s suggested, and not just by most sleep specialists, but by common sense, that the ritual should begin at least an hour before bedtime so that you can account for some resistance, and also to give you and your child enough time without feeling rushed, as you may find your child responds better.
So we have mustered up a little “how to” list with some ideas on creating an effective bedtime ritual for you and your children:
- Switching off tv’s and other electronic devices an hour before bed. You will likely get the plea to watch for another 10 minutes, this is your call. If it’s really close to the end of the show, then give them that bit of extra time will save you from possible tantrums should you switch the tv off beforehand.
- Bathing, face washing and teeth brushing, besides the health benefits, allows the body to trigger sleep signals as you get them into this routine.
- Low lighting and soothing music in the background is a great way to create a calming environment for both you and your child. Give them the option of two or three different books for bedtime reading, and make it clear you are only reading the one book.
- Having a quiet conversation about their day, what they really enjoyed and what they didn’t like opens up a channel of safety for them to be able to say what’s on their hearts and minds. It’s a really special bonding time to share ideas and reaffirm your love and support.
- Singing or humming a song to them may sound cliché, but the sound of a mother’s voice to her child is soothing to their ears and their souls. Dads, you aren’t excluded from this equation, we know you can sing. Just don’t break out into a blues-rock song!
- Keeping a glass or bottle of water at their bedside prevents their excuses for getting up and having a sip of water. Just be sure to control their fluid intake a couple of hours before bedtime.
- Physical touch is a must. Human touch stimulates our senses which gives us that warm and fuzzy feeling we all love so much. So be sure to cuddle and kiss your child for a few minutes as you tuck her in.
Now as your child gets older, reading bedtime stories and cuddles may not be something they will look forward to anymore. So consider a quiet activity that helps them focus without being distracted by technology. We figured teaching and playing chess every night gets their bodies to relax and their minds quiet. This is also a great bonding experience as you learn more about how your child’s mind thinks in different situations.
On a side note, we are all energetically connected and believe it or not can actually feel each other’s energy. If you are feeling stressed and anxious, your child may feel that energy and act out in a way neither of you may understand. So as a parent, it is your responsibility to be able to wind down and create a calming aura in your own space, so that your child naturally feels calmer too.
Lastly, stick with it, as hard as it may sometimes be. And remember to be flexible as they get older. Giving them the opportunity to make bigger decisions under your supervision creates a sense of mutual respect and responsibility.
Let us know what your thoughts are, and what experiences you have to share with us and our viewers.