The word ideal can be defined as something “of an excellent or perfect kind.” When it comes to establishing a routine for your children, this ambition should be no different. An ideal nighttime routine should do more than just help your children get to sleep on time; it should also support healthy sleeping habits and set them up for success both in the short term and long term.
Establishing an effective bedtime routine may be easier said than done, but with these steps, you can start creating the blueprint that leads to a better night’s rest (and less stress) for everyone involved.
Step 1: Make Sure They Eat a Nutritious Dinner
Giving your children a healthy, balanced meal before they go to bed will help them get the nourishment they need and set up their bodies for rest. If you’re short on time, try making this cajun chicken pasta for an easy, delicious dinner.
Step 2: Give Them Time to Wind Down
Make sure to give your children ample time to unwind before bed. This could involve turning off the lights in their room and having them sit in complete darkness or playing a calm, soothing song on the radio. You could also encourage them to do something creative, such as coloring or drawing. Anything that gets their mind off of their day and helps them relax is beneficial.
Step 3: Have a Bedtime Ritual
Having a bedtime ritual can help your children recognize when it’s time to sleep and make the transition easier. It can also be helpful to include some kind of physical contact in this process —a hug or cuddle goes a long way! It’s essential that they know you love them and are there for them, even if it’s just before bed.
Step 4: Stick to the Same Schedule
Creating a consistent schedule for your children is essential for getting into a rhythm that works well for everyone involved. This includes making sure to start the bedtime routine at the same time every night. Consistency is key—it’s easier for everyone to stay on track if you’re not constantly changing up the schedule.
Step 5: Stay Positive
Staying positive throughout the entire process is important, even when it feels like things are getting out of control. Make sure your children know that no matter how hard it may seem, you will get through this together! Encouragement and reassurance go a long way in helping them feel secure and confident.
Creating an ideal nighttime routine isn’t always easy, but with mindful planning and dedication; you can help ensure that your children get the rest they need while also developing healthy habits to last a lifetime. The five steps outlined in this article are key components of establishing such a routine, and with your dedication, you can create the perfect nighttime routine for your kids.
If you’re looking for more parenting resources to help you handle life as a parent, head over to our friend Belle’s blog at bellecarney.com. Belle offers a variety of helpful articles and tips to support you in your parenting journey.
