End Bedtime Battles Now: A Valuable Guide For Parents

If you’ve ever compared bedtime to an old Western standoff, you’re in the right spot. With all the changes in temperature, daylight, and schedule mix-ups, bedtime lately has been trickier. A long night of arguing, crying, and frustrating can also lead to the next morning also being a challenge.

Luckily, there is hope.

Why Bedtime Reluctance Happens

Kids are creatures of habit. Their brains like to know what happens next. Some kids also have FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). With the sun out longer, kids may want to stay involved in whatever their parents are doing. Although this may not feel like a compliment at the end of a long day, it is. (Your kid really likes you!) Additionally, growth spurts, new fears, and developing new skills can also make it hard for them to settle down and sleep.

What To Try Before the Bedtime Tuck-In

First, create and stick to a consistent bedtime routine. Creating a routine is beneficial because it helps kids know what to expect and prepares their brains for sleep.
Here are a few routines to consider:

Second, talk to your child about what they can do while they are trying to get to sleep. Can they read more books, sing a song, drink from a water bottle, or talk to a stuffed animal? Having images of their options can be really helpful for little ones.. check out this “My Bedtime Option” Freebie!

Third, stay as consistent as possible*. If you are moving bedtime around, sometimes you just let your kid stay up later because they are pouting, or feed your child after they go to bed it is sending a mixed message to your child.
*Sometimes life happens and you are going to need to adjust- your kid is a human and so are you.

What To Do In the Moment

Your child has come out of their room and is now screaming at you. They are never going to bed ever again. They don’t want to. You don’t know whether to laugh or cry, but you do know that you need your child to sleep.

“I hear you. You aren’t feeling tired yet, but it is bedtime. You can choose an option from your bedtime list. I will tuck you in once more; it is time to go to bed.”

What To Do After Bedtime Goes Poorly

Rejoice! Your child finally fell asleep. In the morning, chat with your child about the previous evening and how they had a hard time. Ask what they chose from their bedtime list to help themselves. Then, discuss what they could try tonight if they struggle to sleep. Practice together by acting it out.

Conclusion

Bedtime doesn’t have to be a standoff. With consistency, understanding, and a little patience, you can help your child transition smoothly to sleep. Remember, you’re teaching them necessary habits that will benefit them for a lifetime. So hang in there, and soon, bedtime will be a peaceful part of your day.