Now, you can say “Good night.” and mean it. As parents, we have to wear many hats. We’re super heroes, doctors, playmates, confidants and in this case, the sand man. But when it’s time to put your kids down for the night, the key is to make them willing participants.
The most important part of getting your kids to bed should be routine. If you can get your child in a routine, they’ll almost start winding down themselves. And soon, they’ll be putting themselves to bed with you having to say little or nothing at all!
How do I know? Because I have a son of my own named Jordan. He is now ten years old, but ever since he was old enough to sleep in a “big boy” bed, we’ve put him on a schedule, and it has worked miracles for us.
Here’s what an evening before bed looks like for Jordan:
First of all, we try not to allow him to drink anything an hour or more before bed. This will ensure that once he’s asleep, he won’t have to wake up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. When he was younger, it also helped to stave off bed-wetting accidents.
Secondly, we get him to do something that signals “It’s time for bed” like putting his pajamas on the bed or finding a book to read for a bedtime story.
Then, we make sure he gets a nice, warm bath. This is always done about half an hour before bedtime. This works wonders at relaxing children and even seems to have a tiring effect on them. Think about how good it feels to get a bath before bedtime for yourself!
Next, you can read your child a short bedtime story (or if you’re creative, make one up!).
Books about bedtime are great! But funny stories have worked best for us! Nothing like a good belly laugh before bedtime for kids!
And in our household, praying together before our son is put down for the night has a very calming effect on him. We hold hands, and each one of us takes a turn saying our prayers. Giving thanks to God for all He does for us is a sedative like no other in our home.
Tuck’em in! Even though Jordan is a fifth grader, nothing sets him on his way to Dreamland like having one of us come and pull his covers up to his neck and tucking him in. And finishing it off with a kiss and an “I love you.” is icing on the cake!
This isn’t rocket science. It’s just about taking the time and the right steps to ensuring your child gets a good night’s rest. I hope these ideas help your family mean it when they say “Good night.” Sweet dreams!
Nicole enjoys spending time with her son, Jordan and her husband, Muri. She loves to travel, work her home-based business, shop and meet new people. If you would like to spend more time with your loved ones, please contact Nicole.
http://www.fulltimefamily.com