Bedtime woes!

We’ve established a bedtime routine with all our children. The teenagers no longer stick to a routine…at least not one I’m aware of! Most recently, our 5 year old son, Simon (SJA), has tried to challenge the routine without success. Since he was a toddler we had a bedtime routine. We’ve modified it, but it’s basically the same. His latest rants ‘I’m not ready to sleep’, ‘Sierra’s not in the bed’, ‘I want daddy to read me a story’….the list is endless. However, he still manages to fall asleep by 8:30pm, most nights.

A bedtime routine gives children a sense of calm and security; but could drive you nutty in the process.

Here’s the routine that works for me.
1hr before bedtime:
Mum: Simon here’s your milk!
A cup of warm strawberry milk. It soothes him and he knows bedtime is near.

7:15pm
Mum: Simon, it’s time to take a bath.
SJA: I don’t want to take a bath…I don’t want to go to bed!!!
A warm bath followed by lathering his body in baby oil/lotion. The scent is soothing and I need to remain calm.

7:30pm
Mum: Time to brush your teeth and put on your PJs!
SJA: You brush it mommy. My hand is tired!
Dental hygiene is important to your child’s health. Night time brushing is essential.

7:35pm
Mum: Don’t forget to use the bathroom!
SJA: I did!
Using the bathroom helps avoid accidents that can interrupt sleep (yours and his)

7:40pm
Mum: You have 5 minutes….then we’ll say our prayers.
SJA: Ok, I’m going to grandma’s room

7:45pm
Mum: Simon, it’s time for prayers.
SJA: I’m not ready yet. Sierra’s not in her bed!
We say our prayers (spiritual connection is important to our family)

7:50pm
SJA: Mommy read the Grandpa Book please.
Story time is a special bonding time for us.

8:00pm
Hugs and kisses and lights out. However, his closet light is turned on.

Some nights he falls right off to sleep. Other nights…..not so quickly.

8:15pm
SJA: Mom, mommy, MOM!!! I’m not tired!
Mum: Relax Simon and close your eyes.

8:25pm
SJA: Can I have some water? I’m thirsty.
Mum: Good night Simon.

8:30pm
SJA is fast asleep hugging one of his bears.

There’s no perfect routine. However, a routine is important. Sticking to a routine requires a great deal of sacrifice. It’s hard work, but worth it. Once you’ve found a routine that works, stick to it. No matter what your little one may try, be consistent! It’s beneficial for kids to adopt healthy sleep habits. It’s also important for a mom to have some down time. A balanced lifestyle requires down time. So if you’re experiencing bedtime woes, try developing a routine. It’s not too late. Good luck and sweet dreams!

Resources:
Sleep Guide