Why Bedtime Routines Are Important

At one time or another every parent has experienced times when their child did not want to go to bed. This can result in drama that is unpleasant to deal with. Perhaps this is an issue on Sunday nights. When it comes to enforcing bed times many parents are more relaxed on Friday and Saturday nights. After all, most kids are able to sleep-in on Saturday and Sunday mornings. 

But when Sunday night rolls around problems can develop. Perhaps you recently dealt with a bedtime battle situation. Kids may find it difficult to understand why they should go to bed earlier one night than they did on another. In some cases you may deal with tantrums or other displays of frustration. So what can you do to avoid such problems in the future? The solution is a simple one – you need to establish bedtime routines.

Bedtime Routines Are About Behaviors and Actions

While it is good to keep a consistent bedtime it is even better to develop a bedtime routine.

A bedtime routine may start long before it is actually bedtime. For instance, if your kids go to bed at 8:30 pm you may want to start the routine as early as 7 pm. Perhaps it starts with something like picking up toys from the floor, followed by bath time. 

After the bath you will probably want your kids to brush their teeth. Then it may be time to watch a bit of TV, color a page in a coloring book, or maybe you will read a story to your kids. Other bedtime routines can include saying prayers, taking any needed vitamins or medications, laying out clothes and supplies for the next day, or tending to the needs of a pet.

Benefits of Bedtime Routines

An established bedtime routine helps prepare the child for sleep. Kids become accustomed to the predictive nature of taking their bath, then having a story read to them, and then falling asleep.

However, you should offer some built-in choices that make the routine more personalized and enjoyable for your child. For instance, you can let your kids choose the pajamas they will wear and let them decide which story you will read.

Top Bedtime Routine Tips

• Keep bedtime consistent – even on weekends and during times off from school.
• Similarly, do not stray too far from a regular time for your kids to get up.
• Provide your child with a favorite stuffed animal or a special blanket. This can help him/her feel more secure when you leave the room.
• A special night light can be a wonderful addition to any child’s room. It can add a comforting feeling for the child and make the room safer for everyone. It also makes it easier when you check in on the little one throughout the night.

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