When it comes to bedtime, the most important thing that you can do is to establish a routine. Follow these tips to make going to bed less stressful for you and your child.
- Set aside 10 to 30 minutes to get your child ready to go to sleep each night.
- Establish a relaxed setting at bedtime that may include dimming the lights, playing/singing a particular slow song.
- Shut off the television and read to your child instead. Not only will this help your child relax, but experts agree that reading to your child is one of the best activities that you can do with your child.
- Before bedtime, do not allow your child to have foods or drinks that contain caffeine. Try not to give him or her any medicine that has a stimulant at bedtime. This includes cough medicines and decongestants.
- Make sure that the temperature in your child’s room is comfortable.
