Is bedtime a struggle in your home? Here are some of the benefits of having a bedtime routine for your kids.
Makes Bedtime Predictable (And Less Of A Battle)
If the phrase “time to get ready for bed!” sparks pushback or whining from your children, you absolutely need a bedtime routine! That frustration and resistance is probably attributed to the fact that bedtime sneaks up on your children! (You would probably grumble too if your day ended suddenly and without warning.) This is why a bedtime routine is so helpful, because it defines bedtime and clearly lays out pre-bedtime expectations, thus, minimizing tantrums.
To get started, establish the new routine by posting it on your fridge and going over it with your kids. If you want to make it extra fun, you could give your kiddos fun new toothbrushes. Or you could weave special family time into the routine like reading aloud or puzzle time. To make the most of your routine, make sure the house is calm and quiet, turn screens off, and turn on low lighting like lamps, to help your children physically and mentally wind down as they get ready for bed.
Ensures Your Child Is Getting Enough Sleep
Another reason a bedtime routine is so valuable is that it helps kids get the proper amount of sleep, which boosts their mood and energy level throughout the day. Kids need more sleep than adults do, and their ideal bedtime is earlier than you may think! According to The Baby Sleep Site, your littles need to be in bed no later than 8:30 p.m. (or earlier, if they’re under the age of 5.)
A nice side benefit to putting your kids to bed on time is that it gives you extra time to unwind before calling it a night. Because let’s be honest, what parent doesn’t put the kids to bed, look at the clock, and wish they had a bit more time to relax before going to bed themselves?
Promotes Good Sleep
Teething, nightmares, noises–the list of things that keep our kiddos from sleeping soundly through the night is endless. But while helping our kids get a good night’s sleep may be easier in some seasons than in others, a good bedtime routine always make it easier for them to fall asleep and sleep well. When our kids have a few things they do in order each night before bed (for example: bath, brush teeth, book, bed) it helps their brains expect and prepare for sleep. It settles them down and prepares them for the day to end.