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I notice alot of parents have trouble getting their kids to sleep and establishing proper sleep patters. I have advice, which may help. There are a few things you can do, which could help your little ones to bed (and also give you a good night sleep)
Routine:
Kids need a fixed bedtime, regardless of what time it is. 8, 9 or even 10pm. It needs to be strict and they must be diciplined if they play up. Perhaps if they play up, then they go to bed 15 minutes earlier the next night! Soon they will learn that 9pm (for example) is the bedtime and they will go to bed themselves. Also, they will start to learn to listen to rules you make and get used to following them.
Distractions:
Too many bedrooms have so many distractions, such as PCs, play stations, dvds, tv and even mobile phones for some kids. No wonder they cant sleep when all these distractions are around. Now, i understand some homes there isnt much room to put the PC elsewhere, but for most of us, leave the distractions in the family room or the study. Bedrooms are for sleeping, no playing!
Switch Off:
Another tip is to turn off at the powerpoint the things when its bedtime. You cant fall into the trap or discussion or negotiating. You have to be firm and say, "Its 9pm, everything off" and turn it off. This is the same principal for lights out in the bedroom.
Reading
Also, one trick i found is that kids love it when your kids read to them. So if they are in bed by time, they get a little treat of you reading to them for 10 minutes before bedtime. This shows them that if they are good and go to bed on time, then they get a reward! And whats more precious then some close time together with your children.
Food
One last tip, no food 3-4 hours before bedtime. Otherwise, they will have to much energy and cant sleep. Also limit fluids just before bed also, or else you could have a nasty surprise in the middle of the night.
Hope this helps!
(October 2008) (
