How to Help Kids to Stay in Bed
Helping a child stay in bed and sleep through the night is a challenge for some families. Often children want to stay up late, have trouble going to sleep or wake up missing Mommy or Daddy. While it may be tempting to give into your child's requests by inviting him or her into your bed or letting him or her stay up late to enjoy a special snack, it is important to set a familiar routine as well as establish and maintain a rule about having your child sleep in his or her own bed.
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Instructions
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Establish a bedtime routine. Creating an enjoyable bedtime routine helps your child enjoy getting into bed and allows him some control over going to bed. Work with your child to develop a routine that he enjoys and ensures that he does not need to get out of bed. At the end of the routine, remind your child that he does not need anything and must stay in bed.
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Allow your child to stay awake in bed. Older children may have trouble falling asleep as soon as they are in bed. Help your child stay in bed instead of leaving her room by providing her with the opportunity to stay in bed and read quietly or complete another quiet activity until she feels tired and ready to sleep. While your child might stay up late on the first several nights, the novelty will soon wear off and she will return to a normal sleep schedule.
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Remind your child that he must stay in bed. If your child gets out of bed, gently remind him that he must go back to his room, take him to his bed, give him a quick snuggle in bed and then leave his room. If your child gets out of bed a second time complete the same process quickly and firmly. If your child continues to get out of bed lead him to his room silently and do not engage in a cuddle or conversation.
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Reward your child for staying in bed. Create a reward system that works for your family. You may choose to create a star chart and give your child a sticker each night he stays in bed, leading to a small prize after so many nights. Another option is to give your child a special bedtime snuggle the next night. You may also reward him by letting him choose a favorite breakfast or morning activity when he makes it through the night.
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Stick to the routine. Once you have established a bedtime routine and made your expectations clear, it is important to maintain consistency. Do not give in to your child and allow him to get out of bed, even if he has stayed put for several nights in a row. Remaining clear and consistent helps your child learn what is expected of him and that he must follow the rules.
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References
- Photo Credit my first book image by Bernard Rog from Fotolia.com
