Tips on how to help your child get a good nights sleep

Life can get busy, but as adults we understand the important of getting good sleep.  Children require good sleep also and research has shown that having a consistent bedtime routine will help children get better sleep. Setting a bedtime pattern for the child will help them to mentally prepare for bedtime and will help them to fall asleep faster and hopefully stay asleep.

The following are some events that can be worked into your pre-bedtime routine:

• Putting on pajamas or night clothes
• Brushing their teeth
• Trying to go potty on last time before bed
• Having a set time before bedtime to turn off electronic devices such as cell phones, tablets, televisions, etc…
• If the child likes to sleep with something such as a stuff animal or special blabket, have them go get the stuffed animal or blanket.
• Read bedtime stories to the child, nursery rhymes, sing lullabies, or even read fables prior to tucking them in for the night.

Establishing a routine that is followed each night helps the child to learn what is expected.  Make it exciting to get ready for bed.  Get the child to tell you what is next in the routine and help them get excited about going to bed.

Not only does reading and spending time with your child as part of this routine create special memories, but it helps them to unwind and get mentally prepared to fall asleep.