Your child did not have enough sleep the night before and you are just waiting for the meltdown. You have seen the correlation between children and sleep. You know that a well-rested child is better equipped to handle the daily demands of living and growing. Science tells us that children need proper sleep in order for their growing brains to form and strengthen healthy brain connections. Lack of sleep can interfere with learning abilities and behavior. You know it, but your children do not want to fall asleep. They have the tricks, but do you have the tips?
Tricks and Tips:
The Enthusiast- Your child becomes enthusiastic about everything he sees in his room. This excitement and renewed interest makes it impossible for him to fall asleep.
Tip: Take distractions and toys out of the room. Involve your child in creating a bedroom that supports relaxation. If the bedroom feels like a playroom or obstacle course they will not want to fall asleep.
The Complainer- Your child starts complaining about not feeling good the minute she gets into bed. Your parenting intuition tells you that there is nothing seriously wrong but you do know that she is prone to growing pains.
Tip: Instead of arguing with your child, introduce her to The Feel Better Bear. The very name of this all-natural, corn filled microwaveable bear suggests that your child will “feel better.” This snuggly form fitting bear can actually be warmed up in just 1 or 2 minutes in the microwave. Your child can place The Feel Better Bear on her tummy or neck to instantly relax and relieve those aches.
Note: My daughter was requesting an electrical heating pad to help her fall asleep. I found The Feel Better Bear to be a safe and cozy solution. My daughter uses it for growing pains, cramps, and straight relaxation. She likes that she can use it warm or cold, depending on her needs. I personally warm it up and place it on my shoulders to relieve the aches and pains of stress. To learn more about Chilly Bear- The Feel Better Bear visit http://feelbetterbear.com/more.html
The Camel- Every night at bedtime your child becomes thirsty. He gets out of bed repeatedly for a drink always claiming he just need one more sip.
Tip: Consider eliminating this stall tactic by allowing your child to keep a drink of water by his bed. Your child can participate in preparing his water for bedtime. He will feel empowered and in charge of having some of his needs met.
Involving children in creating bedtime solutions eliminates much of the power struggle. Bedtime should be a time that you can create happy memories and strengthen your child parent bond. When children actively participate in their own bedtime routine they increase their self-esteem. Children that are getting enough sleep are better able to handle the stressors of the day.
Lori Lite is the founder and author of Stress Free Kids: A Parent’s Guide to Helping Children Build Self-Esteem, Manage Stress, and Reduce Anxiety. Her award winning children’s series, Indigo Dreams introduces stress management techniques through storytelling. Stress Free Kids constant upbeat presence on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest make Lori a real-time resource for anyone seeking practical advice for stress free living. Her passion of helping others has grown to include Twitter marketing consulting. Member of #411Voices #SharkTank
