Bedtime Routine Tips and Tricks for Parents
/No matter how old you are a good night sleep is essential and with research suggesting that almost 30% of babies and toddlers find it difficult to sleep it is an issue many families experience. Having a bedtime routine is one of the best ways to help encourage a good night sleep, for young children that should be at least of 10 to 12 hours.
Starting a routine is simple and can be done at any time, results should be seen within the first week, but the first few night’s may be difficult for parents – but it is worth it in the end! Here are some tips for a solid bedtime routine.
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Night-time Activities
From brushing teeth to bath time, these activities can create a hectic environment which is why they should be completed at least 30 minutes prior to putting your head down.
Making these activities less hectic is a task in itself but it can be achieved using some of the techniques below.
Try making bath time fun with bubbles and toys; this is a last release of energy!
Once out of the bath pop on some relaxing music or a calming film whilst drying.
A warm milk or equivalent can really set the tone that it is time to start winding down.
When brushing teeth make sure the child knows the reasoning behind it and take some time to brush your own teeth at the same time making it feel like a family activity. Brushing teeth is vitally important and toothpaste alone won’t help keep teeth clean so ensure they are brushing correctly.
Brush teeth for the two minutes and offer a reward such as a star on their chart. This will maintain a positive energy before bedtime. This dentist who does quality All on Fours in Lincoln Park also recommends teaching them how to floss at an early age.
A great way to help your child sleep is to read a bedtime story or an audio book. Both of these are great alternatives to sleeping with a television or iPad on which stimulate the brain and can affect health negatively.
The Environment
Creating a calming environment before bedtime can be difficult, especially if you have a large or loud family but including the below can help with this.
Switch off all technology when in bed, or remove any technology from the bedroom.
Provide your child with their own sleeping space that is away from bright lights.
Keep a dime lit light on – keeping a light on can help a child feel safe and close to parents.
Don’t have loud or serious conversations after a certain time; this is a great tip for adults and children alike. As adults night-time conversations can result in irrational outcomes and end up being a waste of time so keep that discussion for when everyone is bright eyed and bushy tailed. Loud conversations will distract children from the task at hand, which in this case is sleeping.
Make sure the temperature is right; this is usually around 18.3 degrees Celsius (65 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperature plays a big part in comfort.
Obviously, every child is different and what works for one may not work for another so one of the best tips is to consider what will work best for you and your family. If you have any bedtime tips that have been tried and tested do share.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.
