Tips for a successful bedtime routine:
For a well rested, happy pre-schooler, your young child needs 10-12 hours of sleep a night. When a bedtime routine is in place the transition from their day to bed should be calm and easy. Children thrive on routine in everyday life. They need security in knowing what comes next.
• Decide on an appropriate time for your child to go to bed. Be sure to keep it to the same time each night keeping in mind how much sleep is recommended for your pre-school age child.
• Stick to the same routine each night. Such as bathing, putting on pajamas, teeth brushing, story, etc..
• Bath your child in the evening just before bed. It is a calming experience for them.
• Be sure to have your child help with getting ready for bed by cleaning up the bath toys, putting on their own pajamas, brushing their teeth and choosing a story.
• It is very important that your child sleep in his or her own bed. If they need a light on, stick to a night light only.
• Do not leave on a television in their room. More times than not the television keeps them awake and over stimulates them.
• Bedtime snacks should not include anything high in sugar or caffeine.
• About an hour before bed, turn off the television and have your child help clean up their toys for the day. Engage them in calming activities such as coloring, looking at books, or helping you.
Most of all be consistent. The right amount of sleep and an appropriate bedtime ritual are keys to better behavior and a happier child.
For a well rested, happy pre-schooler, your young child needs 10-12 hours of sleep a night. When a bedtime routine is in place the transition from their day to bed should be calm and easy. Children thrive on routine in everyday life. They need security in knowing what comes next.
• Decide on an appropriate time for your child to go to bed. Be sure to keep it to the same time each night keeping in mind how much sleep is recommended for your pre-school age child.
• Stick to the same routine each night. Such as bathing, putting on pajamas, teeth brushing, story, etc..
• Bath your child in the evening just before bed. It is a calming experience for them.
• Be sure to have your child help with getting ready for bed by cleaning up the bath toys, putting on their own pajamas, brushing their teeth and choosing a story.
• It is very important that your child sleep in his or her own bed. If they need a light on, stick to a night light only.
• Do not leave on a television in their room. More times than not the television keeps them awake and over stimulates them.
• Bedtime snacks should not include anything high in sugar or caffeine.
• About an hour before bed, turn off the television and have your child help clean up their toys for the day. Engage them in calming activities such as coloring, looking at books, or helping you.
Most of all be consistent. The right amount of sleep and an appropriate bedtime ritual are keys to better behavior and a happier child.