Nanny to Mommy

Bedtime battles are a literal nightmare for parents, and there is nothing worse than ending the day on a bad note. While you know that your child needs proper rest to grow and learn each day, children often have trouble settling down in the evening. Fortunately, it is possible to transform bedtime into one of your family’s special times of the day, and you can use these tips to make putting your child to bed easier on everyone.

Children thrive on routine, and your child should have a set bedtime that helps them know what to expect. Although your child may occasionally stay up late due to family events such as traveling, it is best to stick to the schedule as much as possible. Going to bed at an hour that lets them get enough sleep at night also prevents children from being overtired and cranky at the end of the day.

Smartphones and computers emit light that has a disruptive effect on a person’s circadian rhythms, and children are especially susceptible to this effect. Children may also get overstimulated by playing video games or talking to their friends just before bed. Have your child shut off all of their electronics one hour before bedtime. Then, plan a few relaxing activities such as reading or doing a craft that helps them get in the right frame of mind for rest.

Large snacks just before bed can make it harder for your child to fall asleep. Not only does a heavy meal increase the chances of an upset tummy, but it also causes the body to focus on digestion rather than rest. Try to limit snacking after dinner. If your child does need a snack, then keep it light. A small piece of fruit or a few crackers is all they need to stave off hunger until the morning.

Children sometimes get caught up in a cycle of dreading bedtime, but it does not have to be this way. Start a special bedtime ritual that your child can look forward to each night. Whether you sing a song or read a book together is up to you, but make sure that your ritual allows for plenty of snuggles that soothes them just before bed.

Your child’s refusal to go to sleep may be due to an uncomfortable sleep environment. Children are sensitive to things such as a lumpy mattress and lights glaring through the window. Start by checking out your child’s bed, and replace the mattress if it is old or losing its form. Then, consider hanging light-blocking curtains, and use a white noise machine to drown out sounds from outside.

As a final note, you should expect your child to test your resolve a few times to see if you really mean it when it comes to bedtime. When your child leaves their room, send them back. Suggest that they lay in bed until they fall asleep, and your child will quickly get the message that you mean business.

Ending bedtime battles is important for your child’s development, and you also need to be able to enjoy an evening without unnecessary stress. Now that you have a few tricks to put up your sleeve, go ahead and get started trying them out. With a cozy sleep environment and a firm stance, you can bet that tonight’s bedtime will be the best your child has ever experienced.

Author Bio: Paige Jirsa- I work with Top10.Today, a shopping comparison site, where we strive to help consumers find the best quality and priced products.