| Bedtime can be a time of positive interactions and | | | | need for sleeping to help them to stay healthy and |
| outcomes for both parent and child. For many parents, | | | | about the importance of rest. Discuss how by eating |
| getting into a bedtime routine presents a challenge. By | | | | healthy foods and by sleeping, children's bodies grow. |
| using some effective and consistent techniques, | | | | 4. Only allow your child two, maximum of three books. |
| tucking your child into bed can be a pleasure! | | | | You can allow them to help pick out a book that will |
| Your child needs to have a set routine. This routine | | | | take a few minutes for you to read. Reading to your |
| needs to be implemented as soon as possible and | | | | child can be a wonderful time for bonding. Remind your |
| parents need to be firm in following through. A list of | | | | child a few times that after reading the books it's lights |
| tips below will help to make bedtime a more positive | | | | out and time to go to sleep. If your child is looking to |
| experience for everyone. | | | | have a conversation with you, remind them you would |
| 1. Choose a set time that your child goes to bed every | | | | love to chat when they wake up in the morning. |
| night. For example, start the whole process at 7:30pm | | | | Remind your child you love them. |
| if aiming to have lights out by 8:00pm. | | | | 5. Play some soft music, potentially turn on a night light |
| 2. Give your child a five or ten minute warning to finish | | | | and leave the room after reading the books. Say |
| up their activities so they are aware that it is soon time | | | | goodnight to your child, express your love for them |
| to prepare for bed. This means all toys, crafts items | | | | and that you will see them in the early morning. |
| and games are to be cleaned up and put away. | | | | Remember, consistency is key in developing a bedtime |
| 3. Help your child with washing up, brushing teeth and | | | | routine. There may be some bumps in the road initially |
| getting into their pajamas, reminding them that they are | | | | so have patience. Your child will respond positively to |
| getting ready for bed. You can talk to them about the | | | | the new bedtime rules over time. |