"Time For Bed"

by Guest Blogger Andriana Mantas of Collaborative Minds

"Brush your teeth", "Read a book or two", "Take a bath" What do these snippets of conversation have in common? These tasks are all part of a cycle which we call the "bedtime routine". Sleep is a vital part of a child's growth and development, the proper amount of sleep gauges your child's overall happiness for the day. Children who do not get enough sleep often become irritable and may have temper tantrums. When a child is lacking sleep, they may find it difficult to interact with others and participate in their daily activities. Some children may view sleeping as an activity without any fun or purpose and will often feel like they are missing out.
The following are guidelines that can be tailored to meet the needs of your child and family: create a specific routine to follow every naptime and bedtime; follow your child's lead in creating bedtime routines, some children like a story and massage, whereas another child may prefer a story and lullaby; consistently follow the bedtime routines established with clear communication; develop simple, reasonable consequences if your child doesn't stick to the routine, for instance, we will read only one story instead of two; create a calming atmosphere prior to bedtime, eliminate distractions, and keep things low key once in bed; and let them have a favourite blanket, pillow, stuffed animal or doll as this may provide them with a feeling of security and assist to self soothe.

There has been much controversy around the issue of bedtime, including parents feeling guilty and inadequate. So it's 2:00 am and you have gone to comfort your child for the third time due to a nightmare. What do you do?
We begin to look for 'quick fixes' so that we can get back to our much needed sleep. Whether you decide to have your child join you in your bed or if you're jumping in to their bed, be prepared to follow through on many more nights after that as your child will expect this quite regularly. If possible, soothe your child without taking the next step of sleeping in each other's bed.

Exceptions to sleep routines should be rare even during the summer. Many changes to routines are occurring, school has ended, camp is starting, vacations will take place, trips to the cottage, family reunions and so on. You may ask yourself, how do we adhere to our bedtime routine? Keep it consistent, your children will appreciate it!

For more information, contact Collaborative Minds at 416-803-5321 or collaborativeminds@sympatico.ca

This article was composed for the Gingerbread Lane July Newsletter "Pass Me An Issue" Column to which Andriana is a in house contributor. To receive future Ginger Mail Newsletter, please forward your request to info@gingerbreadlane.ca