Hi moms
Just wanted to share a great tip that worked for us about helping a tween (could be other ages too I imagine) get to bed/sleep.
We have two kids that found it hard to get to sleep once they hit the tween age. Tried changing bed times .. and that worked a bit. I had always let them read in bed .. but that wasn't helping.
A child psychologist I know made a great suggestion. Reading outside of bed (like in a chair). Outside of the bedroom - even better.
She said bed should be just for sleeping. This is crucial for kids who struggle with sleep.
I have let mine watch a show they're not terribly interested in with me just to chill. That does it too. When eyes droop and they're relaxed - now take themselves off to bed.
It has worked (knock on wood) really well.
Just wanted to share that with anyone who struggles. I was getting very frustrated and cranky because that's when I'm tired and not at my best. It's going much better :)
** I know this sounds really simple and basic, but climbing into bed really tired and already super relaxed is key. If your kid's mind tends to start thinking .. this is important.
Great advice B :) and thanks to the other moms with your suggestions on what's worked for you. Sometimes I like to hear back from moms on what has worked (I had asked in a previous question for tips for my kiddo)
Thank you for sharing.
I have heard something similar about the "marital bed" - to preserve the peace and joy of that location for sleeping (and for, you know, "not sleeping"), try to avoid piling work and laptops onto it as a makeshift lazy day lapdesk and other less peaceful uses.
We have this problem with our youngest. We tried melatonin and like with me, it gave him nightmares.
We say NO ELECTRONICS for 30 minutes prior to bed time. He does read in bed, and the sleep therapist told us the same thing - bed is for sleep. But he doesn't have a comfy chair in his room - I guess we could try a large bean bag so he can use that....
I've been falling asleep before prayers and that bothers me that I miss prayer time.
What works for us is:
exercise earlier in the day - morning is better but early afternoon is ok - you don't want to do it too close to bedtime
no tv/screens several hours before bedtime
cool dark bedroom
no big meals/snacks right before bed
cut back on caffeine (or for me none after noon)
try to wake up and go to bed same time every day weekends/holidays included
reading in bed has never been a problem for us but I'm glad you found what works for you and yours
thanks. I had this trouble with #3. It's been a long road. When he was a baby? Day and night were switched for a good 8 months to a year. My husband was deployed. It was a horrible time.
We try to keep a schedule. That has helped us and showers before bed. And no electronics. We do read outside the bedroom.
Thank you M.! I like helpful suggestions. Sometimes the question doesn't even pop into my head (albeit this one did!), so it's nice to have it out there.
