Establishing
Good Sleeping Habits
And so to bed? If only. You'd probably jump at the chance of an early
night. What can you do if your child has a different opinion altogether?
Your
child may resist going to bed because he's not had enough of your attention
during the day and he wants to spend time with you. Have some quiet time
together. Cuddle up and chat about his day. Avoid anything that will excite
and over stimulate him - keep it mellow.
Establish
a bedtime routine
A well-organised routine for bedtime is the most effective way of getting
your child to go to bed without fuss. Fix the time when you want him to
be in bed and make sure he knows it - even if he can't read the clock.
Have a calm and unhurried routine leading up to bedtime.
Once the bedtime routine is finished, leave decisively. Don't give in
to 'one more story', or asking for a glass of water or another teddy to
cuddle. Just go.
Try
creating a 'going to bed chart' with your son, listing all the things
that have to be done before going to bed.
Be
firm...
Parents need some time to themselves at the end of the day. Be firm that
once he is in bed, he stays there. If he comes down, take his hand and
lead him back to bed without saying anything. If he comes down again,
repeat the procedure. It is important that your son understands that you
need time for yourself.
.. and flexible
Not all children need the same amount of sleep. If your son says he's not
tired, tell him he doesn't have to go to sleep but does have to stay in
bed. Why not let him read in bed? It's a good opportunity for him to develop
regular reading habits, to counter the effects of television and computer
games. He'll fall asleep when he's tired although in the beginning, he may
abuse this privilege and be sleepy and irritable the next day. Don't worry,
just stick to the routine. He'll soon realise forcing himself to stay awake
isn't a smart move.
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