Almost every parent will, at some point, experience problems with putting their little one to bed. Whether you’re currently in this situation or you want to minimize difficulty ahead of time, a little bit of preparation and the right tools can go a long way. While every child will need something different, the information below can get you started. Once you learn more about what works, might be surprised at how truly easy it can be to make bedtime a breeze.
1. Go to Bed on Time
A bedtime is important for both the child and parent, as it gives both a set time that sleep is to be expected. More importantly, this can help set the internal clock of your little one so eventually, they fall asleep more quickly at the same time every night. When determining what your child’s bedtime should be, consider what time they wake up, when they show signs of being tired, and how long their daytime nap is.
2. Create a Schedule
Even if it doesn’t seem like it, children thrive on routine. It reduces stress by helping them recognize signs of what happens next in their day. When it comes to creating a bedtime routine, try to keep it short and to the point. This might mean a song or book followed by a kiss and nightlight. Every routine is different, so try various options to find what works best for your kiddo.
3. Check for Comfort
Children, just like adults, can find it difficult to fall asleep if they’re uncomfortable. To minimize any discomfort, first check the temperature in the room. From here, adjust the lighting as your child likes, whether this means a total darkness or a nightlight. Additionally, a good pillow and comfortable mattress will ensure your little one goes to sleep and stays asleep for longer.
4. Offer a Security Object
Infants tend to sleep with pacifiers to soothe them throughout the night. However, for older kids, items that provide comfort may be blankets or plush animals. Find something your child loves to sleep with that’s also safe. It may take a few tries to find something that will help them go to sleep with security.
5. Stay Consistent
If you find your child regularly escaping from bed after you put them down, it’s important to stay consistent. This means firmly yet calmly putting them back to bed with their security object. For many parents, their little one will escape multiple times before finally going to sleep.
6. Reinforce Positive Sleep Behavior
Try not to dwell on things your child does wrong at bedtime. Instead, reward them with positive reinforcement when they wake up. From a sticker to extra play time, they’ll likely begin to love being rewarded for sleeping better.
Finding What Works for You
Making bedtime easier is all about finding what works for you and your child. As long as you stick with a schedule and stay consistent, you should find it’s much easier to get your little one down at night. While it might take some hard work and even tears in the beginning, eventually, it can mean a happier and more well-rested child
Author Bio: Paige Jirsa– I work with Top10.Today, a shopping comparison site, where we strive to help consumers find the best quality and priced products.
