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Tips on Setting a Bedtime Routine

It is important for parents to try and set a bedtime routine from the moment your child is born. Granted, those first couple of months may be extremely hard for the parent and baby to get used to, but over time they will become accustomed to their waking and sleeping times.

The same thing applies once the child is out of the infant stage. Think of a time that is age appropriate for your child. Here are some tips on setting a bedtime schedule.

1. Plan a Routine- The first thing to do is plan out a routine. Once you have decided on a time for waking and sleeping, stick to it. Your child`s time clock will adjust to this rule.
2. Stick to It- Once you have an appropriate schedule set up, stick to it. You could add an extra hour to their bedtime on a Saturday night. Make sure you wake them up at the same time every day.
3. Follow the Same Pattern Nightly- If your child is a baby or toddler, get them used to a familiar pattern of you helping them to put away their toys, running the bath, or even have an alarm go off to give them a warning notice.
4. Offer a Snack- Offer your child a piece of toast with peanut butter or even buttered toast and a small box of raisins. The carbs will help to tide them over until the morning and the raisins will provide their body with sugar.
5. Bath Time- Set a bath for your child. Do not allow too much tomfoolery. It is a time for their body to unwind, relax, and become sleepy.
6. Bedtime Story- Read them a bedtime story in a soft, calming voice. This will comfort them and give them a sense of security.
7. Cuddly Toy- Give them a stuffed animal or cuddly toy to snuggle into and to talk to until they fall asleep.

Once you have completed all of the above steps it is time for you to bid them goodnight. Keep it as brief as possible. Give them a kiss and cuddle and then exit the room. Once your child learns the routine, their inner clock will get used to it. Once they are asleep use the time to relax and unwind.