This is a collaborative post
If bedtime in your house involves tantrums or misbehaving, be assured that you are not alone. You and millions of other parents across the globe encounter regular issues when it comes to getting their kids to sleep.
Perhaps bedtime isn’t an issue, but your children wake multiple times a night, making you feel exasperated as well as exhausted. Children’s sleeping routines are not always easy to master, and bedtime for some parents can become something to dread. The good news is that there are lots of things you can try to make it easier. Here are 3 things that can help children get to sleep and stay asleep.
Reduce screen time
Whether it’s playing games or watching YouTube, children of most ages love spending time on their gadgets, but if you aren’t careful, it can become a bad habit. Research suggests that more and more parents are allowing their children to use tablets and televisions as a means to get to sleep. If you fall into this category and your child struggles to sleep or doesn’t stay asleep, it’s worth trying to break this routine as soon as possible.
The more the brain is stimulated, the harder it is to relax and fall asleep, so turn off the electronics, reduce your kid’s screen time, and try a more peaceful routine instead.
Make sure bedding is comfortable and appropriately sized
Making sure your child’s bed is comfortable and appropriately sized can play a huge part in how well they sleep. If, for example, your child is getting older but is still using a toddler mattress, it may not be supportive enough and could be affecting their quality of sleep. A duvet that is too warm (or not warm enough) might be the reason for your child waking multiple times in the night. It’s a good idea to do some research to find out whether new bedding is needed.
The Dozy Owl is a fabulous online resource for all things sleep-related. They have a host of children’s bedding recommendations as well as lots of other excellent information which could help to narrow your search.
Develop a good bedtime routine
Being a parent is exhausting, so when bedtime is drawing near, it can be very tempting to rush through it so that you can finally have some time alone. However, forming a relaxed bedtime routine that has a gentler pace is far more likely to produce the desired results.
Another top tip is to give your kids ten minutes’ notice that bedtime is approaching. It will minimise the risk of any tantrums or upset when bedtime finally arrives. Once they are snuggled up and comfortable in bed, switch on a nightlight or bedside lamp and, if they are old enough, have them choose a bedtime story. Once storytime is over, tell them goodnight and leave the room.
The more routined bedtime is the most likely they are to sleep and stay asleep. It could take time, but persevere and you will eventually reap the rewards.