How to Get Kids to Go to Bed

When your little ones don't want to go to bed or you find them sleeping in your bed there are a few steps you can take to make them more comfortable in going to bed.

Instructions

    • 1

      Set up a bed time routine with your child. The routine should begin about one hour before you would like them to be in bed for the night. For the little ones don't be concerned with the actual hour because they have no idea what time it really is. A good routine would be bath, pj's, brush teeth, comb hair, drink of water, use the toilet one last time, read a book, hugs and kisses and lights out.

    • 2

      You know your child best. List the things your child uses that keeps them from going to bed. Things like being afraid of the dark, watching TV, wanting something to drink or has to use the bathroom. Put these things in the hour routine and put a night light in the room ahead of time or remove the TV from their room.

    • 3

      Eliminate all stimulations prior to bed. Things that will stimulate a child are televisions, playing with toys, running around and even baths. (That is why I suggest doing the bath first in the routine). The less stimulation they receive before bedtime the more apt they will fall asleep. Have them read books or look at picture books. Actions that have them sitting still and quiet.

    • 4

      Now comes the hard part. When you finish your routine with them and they cry ignore them. If they get out of bed calmly return them to their bed and tell them it is bed time and walk away. Repeat this as many times as it takes. Avoid giving them any attention once you have finished your routine. If you stand outside of their room be careful to not let them know you are there, as this is giving them attention. Do not give in to drinks or one more story, as this is just a way to get your attention and keep from going to bed.

    • 5

      It is important to understand that this may in some children take a while to work. The longer they are use to no bedtime, or sleeping with mom and dad, the longer it may take. Be consistent and patient and you will see the desired behavior and everyone will get their much needed sleep.

    • 6

      With more then one child follow the same steps for each one. If they sleep in the same room and are playing with each other at night, it maybe necessary to separate them into different rooms with a temporary bed until they adjust to the bedtime routine. You can also try sitting in the room off to the corner to supervise. If you do this then you can not talk to them or offer attention. If they get out of bed and begin playing, use the same method of putting them back into bed.

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