But I’m Not Tired! | Ganz Parent Club

But I’m Not Tired!

Tips for making tuck-in time a fun time

by
[Digg] [Facebook] [MySpace] [Twitter]

Bedtime can be a struggle when, no matter how tired they actually are, your kids just won’t admit to it.  Here are some tips to keep tuck-in time more of a bonding experience and less of a challenge.

Consistency is Key

Although this is a no-brainer, it is easier said than done.  Try your best to keep bedtime at a regular hour each night.  A standard routine is not only good for your child’s bio-rhythms; it will also contribute to better quality sleep and happier mornings.  Commit to a regular routine with your child and stick to it.  TV and electronic screens of any kind should be shut off at least an hour before lights out.  This last hour is time for washing up, teeth-brushing, hopefully a story or two, and most importantly the grand finale: tuck-in time!  Both you and your child should look forward to this time together to snuggle, share your thoughts, and genuinely bond as parent and child.

Ease Anxiety

The time between lights out and actually falling asleep can be a tumultuous time for kids especially if they have trouble falling asleep.  Your child might be anxious about monsters in the closet, unidentifiable noises, or simply being left alone in the dark.  Here are some tried and true ways to help your child relax and fall into a dreamy sleep.

The Alphabet Game

While playing a game right before bed might seem counter-intuitive, this process can do just the trick to help kids unwind and get into sleepy-time mode.  Choose a category (e.g. snack foods, TV shows, animals) and go through the alphabet one letter at a time and name something from that category.  For example – vegetables: Asparagus, Brussel Sprouts, Cabbage… etc.  You can do one category with your child and then suggest one they can do on their own after you tuck them in and leave the room.

Body Relaxation

Lead your child through a full-body relaxation exercise.  Starting with the toes, guide your child to squeeze them tight and hold for three breaths.  Then relax.  Next move on to the feet – squeeze for three breaths then relax.  Move up through the calves, thighs, tummy, upper arms, lower arms, hands, and then face (or as I like to call it “srunchy face”).  This will help your child to focus on feeling physically relaxed which will ultimately help them to unwind mentally and emotionally.

People who Love You!

This is particularly helpful when a child is upset or scared about something specific or when a sleep disturbance occurs in the middle of the night.  Ask your child to list all of the people who love them, starting with family members then friends.  The list can run on to include the family pets, stuffed animals, even imaginary friends.  As your child lists off names, she will begin to fade away into a blissful sleep feeling very secure and loved.

Ultimately, if you maintain a consistent bedtime schedule and include some of the above strategies into your bedtime routine your child will be able to fall asleep with less of a struggle and enjoy better quality sleep.   As an added bonus, you will also be able to get better shut-eye and be well-rested for the next crazy day ahead!

About The Author

SusieM
Susie Mac is a children’s media enthusiast and blogger based in Toronto, Canada. She has more than seven years experience in the communications field including television, filmmaking and web production, among others. Susie earned her Master’s of Arts in Communication and Culture from York University.

leave a reply

Required fields are marked *

*


*

You may use these HTML tags and attributes: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <strike> <strong>