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Tips for peaceful bedtimes
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Set a time
for bedtime.
Try to have
bedtime at the same time every night. Be as consistent as you
can and offer gentle reminders as bedtime nears.
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Establish a
bedtime routine.
And try to do the same routine each night. Take a bath, read a
book, talk about the day, name the best part of the day or any
other quiet activity that signals the bedtime routine has begun.
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Use a
special bedtime comfort.
Have a
special pillow, blanket, stuffed animal, soft music or night
light that’s especially for bedtime use.
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If
possible, give choices for the routine.
“Would you
like to sleep with your bear or bunny tonight?” “Which book
would you like to read tonight?”
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Remember to
watch the clock.
Don’t start
longer games, books or movies before bed as it may cause
arguments about wanting to finish them. Also, keep more physical
activities for earlier in the evening and quieter activities for
closer to bedtime.
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Tips to avoid arguments
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Give your
child choices.
This works
at most ages! For example, say, “You have to wear socks, but you
can pick the red ones or the blue ones.” Be sure to use choices
you can live with and then praise them when they pick, “Good
choice!”
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Tell your
child what to expect.
“We’re
going to two stores today, but not the toy store.” “You have 10
more minutes to play, then we need to go.”
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Model the
behavior you’d like to see.
Do not
argue with your child. Remain calm and do not yell.
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Have a
routine.
This will
help children know what to expect. Bedtime is after one book,
homework is done before TV, etc. Be sure the rules are clear and
consistent.
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Explain
your reasons.
But don’t
expect young children to fully understand. Making good decisions
takes years of practice and children need a good role model.
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2007 tip cards
