Okay parents, you've been through this before. Bedtime frustrations. Sometimes putting your toddler to bed is an battle of wits between child and parent. If you continue to have to deal with this situation, you might consider using one of the these techniques to make bedtime more peaceful.
The first, and most important rule, is to be consistent about bed times and waking times. Your toddler is more likely to respond positively if he or she is used to a specified schedule. The younger your child's age when this routine is established, the easier it will be to put them to bed without ongoing battles.
Do your very best to make the activities the same every night, and take the time before bedtime to create a quiet and peaceful environment. Whether you, as a parent, read or tell your child a story, or provide a bedtime snack, or play a short video, or quiet games before putting your child to bed -- being consistent is the key.
If you can, avoid lying in bed with your toddler until he/she falls asleep. Doing so could actually have the opposite effect, and may encourage your child to stay awake, and ask for a drink of water and more bedtime stories. An alternative technique might be to tell your toddler you have to finish a chore and that you'll come back and check on them in a few moments.
Often the child will fall asleep while waiting for mom or dad to return. You might try talking to your child about their day. Keep your tone of voice soft and quiet, and try not to excite your child in the process. You could even turn this into a bedtime story with your child as the main character, which is a fun option they are sure enjoy.
As your child grows older and if a consistent bedtime is strictly maintained, your nightly duty of putting your child to bed will become easier. Consistency and repetition is your key to success. If the child can expect the same routine every night, and these customary tasks are pleasant, bedtime will become a delightful family ritual.
If, however, your child is continually resisting going to sleep, you may need to disucss this with your child's pediatrician, as there might be a medical difficulty at the root of the problem.
Glenn Cutforth is a writer, graphic designer, and webmaster at Maxx Family Life, an oasis of information, tips and resources for families and parents where you will learn everything you need to know about Baby Care, Pregnancy, Raising Kids and much more.
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