10 Tips to Get Your Child to Sleep
By Tiffany Jewell
Routine routine routine. Keep this in the back of your mind as you read through our tips below. Trust me, coming from a mom of twins, this has saved my sanity.
10 Tips include:
1 – Establish a bedtime routine. Develop a pattern that will help everyone wind down both their mind and body.
2 – Cut the calories before bed. Sugary substances tend to keep kids up. Try a glass of water instead.
3 – Get wet. A nice warm bath or shower just before bed helps to relax the body. Add a couple drops of lavender essential oil to bath water to help calm the mind.
4 – Electronics are not your friends before bed. They tend to keep the mind distracted so keep these items out of the bedroom.
5 – Is your child outgrowing their bed? Check the size, you may need to upgrade. Especially as children move into their teen years. There is nothing worse than sleeping with your feet off the bed!
6 – A comfy and cozy bed sure makes all the difference when trying to fall asleep. All you need is one pillow and a cozy blanket and sheet set. If a small special stuffed animal helps your child go to bed, go for it. Just remember to keep it simple. Children with too many toys, blankets or pillows in their bed have a hard time shutting down and tend to toss and turn.
7 – Quiet? Yes please! Who likes banging noises when they are trying to fall asleep? It’s easier to fall asleep when it’s calm and quiet. Teens and adults – try earplugs.
8 – Don’t use going to bed as a form of punishment. This avoids potential negative thoughts you child may develop about going to sleep. In return, be careful not to use staying up later than normal as a form of reward for good behavior.
9 – Avoid negotiations about what time your child can or should go to bed. Instead, let them make others choices like which pajama’s to wear to bed or what book to ready together before bedtime.
10 – Make sleep an important part of your day-to-day routine and lead by example. If sleep is important to you, chances are it will be important to your child as well.
Our Care Team at NOAH are here to help you create and manage your healthy lifestyle habits. Need help setting or sticking to your goals? Call 480-882-4545 today!
