Bedtime evokes feelings of frustration by many parents of preschoolers. Some kids just hate going to bed at night. They will say anything just to stay up one minute longer. At first it may not seem like a big thing to allow a drink of water before bed but when it becomes a nightly habit it can wear on your nerves. Many times the pleas to stay up longer increase the more you give in to one last drink or one last bedtime story.
Ways to Get Your Preschooler to Go to Bed and Stay in Bed
“I’m still hungry.” A typical way a child tries to stay up a little later is by claiming the pangs of hunger must be tamed. The best way to combat that is to beat them to the punch. About an hour or an hour and a half before bedtime have a last call for food and drink. Provide only a small amount of water or juice and a light snack such as yogurt, pudding, a serving of fruit, etc. Just make it light and simple and no substitutions.
“I’m thirsty.” I think we have all heard a child ask for one last sip of water before bed. Cut this off at the pass by providing a small drink of water after your child brushes her teeth. Explain it will be the last drink for the night. Then hold to it.
“Just one more story.” Before you begin to read stories decide on how many you will read. Stick to it. That’s it. Simple. I know it may not sound simple but remember just because your child reacts does not mean you have to.
“I’m scared.” Children often get scared at night for a multitude of reasons. It can be a difficult thing to handle as it will require time and patience. Establishing a bedtime routine will encourage a sense of restfulness and prepare your child for bed. Once your child is ready for bed then read a few books, sing quietly, or talk about the day. This will help your child settle into bed. You may want to allow a nightlight, audio book, or music. A hot bath before bed with lavender essential oil will also help calm your child. The more rested the child is the less likely her imagination will run wild. Turning the TV off about an hour before bed will also encourage rest and stop images from entering your child’s mind.