09/01/2023
Just when you think you’ve got your little monkeys into bed for the night…
Muuuuuummm! I want…
🙈A drink of water
🙉A back rub
🙊Another story
Yes it can be frustrating… however this lack of impulse is 💯 normal when it comes to toddlers and pre-schoolers in beds.
But even so, there are a few things you can do to help minimise curtain calls…
✨Make sure they are tired enough, and not overtired. If sleep pressure is off you better believe staying in bed is going to be an issue.
✨Have a consistent & predictable bedtime routine & wind down- this sequence of events not only helps kids relax their minds and bodies for sleep but also helps them feel safe and secure. Both can help them fall asleep easily come bedtime.
✨Communication - Talk about your evening routine in advance, and as you are going through it. Time reminders can help also - “one more story left” or “2 more minutes of cuddles, and then it’s time to hop into bed”.
✨Fill their power cup & Make it fun!! Giving your little one some small choices can help them feel validated and minimise power struggles. This could look like allowing them to help you create a set of sleep manners/rules. Let them decide how many/which books to read, which pj’s to wear, number of back rubs or bottom pats, once in bed, etc. While you stay in control of the bigger decisions 😉
✨Follow through - If bedtime routine is done and your little one has been tucked in to bed and it’s time for sleep, this is where negotiations should probably end. Now it’s a simple reminder of sleep time, and If they get out of bed, a quick walk back, tuck in and kiss goodnight. Rinse and repeat! 🤪
What’s been the funniest request you’ve had from your pint sized negotiator?
5 d