Ways to Create a Bedtime Routine For Kids

How Tos

By: Miri 16-Nov-2010

Introduction:

Parents may sometimes find it painful to try to get kids to bed on time. Here are five ways to ensure that kids get to bed on time with a bedtime routine that won't make you crazy.

Do Things In the Same Order Every Day

Establishing a routine helps kids stay on task. Try to have the evening meal at about the same time every night. Allow some time for kids to kick back and relax but let them know your expectations. Have them start getting ready for bed one hour before lights out. Have them get a drink of water, go to the bathroom, wash their hands and face or take a bath, put on pajamas, and then brush their teeth. Same order every night will help them develop this into automatic mode.

Establish some Boundaries

If you tell them 8pm is lights out and you keep giving in to their pleading of letting them stay up later it will only frustrate you and it won't help you send the message that boundaries are meant to be kept. There are some rare occasions that you will find acceptable such as holidays or vacation or staying up late on Friday nights but in general stand your ground. You won't be sorry and they will thank you later when they have their own kids to parent.

Get Homework and Other Activities Done Early

Don't let your child procrastinate and wait until the last minute to get their homework done. Encourage them to get it done right after school or as soon as possible. Then reward them with an activity they enjoy on the weekend. This positive reinforcement is just what kids need. Never use food as a reward but give them a privilege that they will connect with.

Don't Overbook a Child With Too Many Activities

Having a child in three extracurricular activities at one time is a recipe for failure. They will not have time to do it all and their school work may suffer not to mention their sleep. Doing this will not only make you crazy but it will make for an unorganized child. Teach them how to balance their life by being involved in an activity that is important to them and to pay attention to the details of their life. This makes for a happy child that has time to spend with you.

Read With Your Child

Reading with your child before bed establishes a routine that lasts a lifetime. Reading opens up new worlds to children and keeps them interested in academics. It's not so important what they read so long as they stay interested. As they get older keep encouraging them to read before bed as part of their routine and you will find they remain interested forever. A great thing to pass onto your child and the easiest part of the bedtime routine.

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dashboardc33 1/30/2013
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Great tips and back to give you another h5.
dashboardc33 1/30/2013
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Nice list!
goodselfme 11/21/2010
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You have such a nice way of promoting these bedtime ideas. I think children thrive on routine.
jseven 11/16/2010
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Excellent tips, I always read to my kids and tried to make bedtime a relaxing, enjoyable time.