How Should Parents Put Their Children to Sleep?

Routine

• Routine allows your child to know what to expect every night, and in turn she will also know what is expected of her. The National Sleep Foundation reports that children are more likely to relax, fall asleep and stay asleep when they follow a routine every night. Create a calm and relaxing environment without television or video games, which can lead to problems falling and staying asleep through the night. Have your child fall asleep in the same place every night.

Encourage Independence

• The National Sleep Foundation states that you need to encourage your child to sleep alone to establish healthy sleeping habits. Your child will be more likely to sleep through the night without interrupting your evening if he gets used to falling asleep and staying asleep alone. You don't need to remain in your child's room until he falls asleep, and if he gets up and comes into your room after he is put to bed, be firm and take him back to bed. Eventually, he will learn that bed time means he needs to stay in bed.

Limit Late Night Wakeups

• Allowing your child to get up and roam around after bed time sends the message that she can do it any time that she wants. Let her know that after she goes to bed, she needs to remain there. Some children like to stall by insisting that they need to go to the bathroom or want a drink after story time, although it's time for lights out. If you know this is the case, ensure that your child's needs are fulfilled before completing the nighttime routine.

Look for Signs

• Take your child to bed when he starts to show signs of drowsiness, and don't wait until your child is overtired to send him to bed. Some symptoms indicate it might be time for bed time, such as whining or rubbing his eyes. Get him to start the routine before he's so tired that he starts to protest with you about settling down for the night.