Children's Bed-time : Bliss or Bedlam at your house?  or  ??

Many parents of young children tell me that bedtime is one of the most stressful times of every day. When you realise that you have to go through this routine day in, day out for quite a few years, that’s a lot of stress on parents and children. Different parents have different bedtime practices – that is, the ways of getting their children ready and into bed, and the time they decide is appropriate. But there is one thing in common to all parents – if the children are not happy to go to bed when and how the parents decide, then there is tension in the family. And tension in the evening is not helpful for anyone’s sleep.
So what can parents do to get their children into bed happily and at a reasonable time, to prevent this night-time stress?

Routines make children feel safe, secure and know what is expected of them. It helps establish security and peace in their life and eradicates the need to ask what they need to do next in their day. They will know from doing it on a daily basis. Children thrive with routines that are easy to understand and do yet flexible enough to change if circumstances warrant. Sometimes the routine has to go out of the window, however good routines will keep your family organised and your children able to schedule time.

Rushing around in the morning with your children shouting at you and you shouting back is no fun at all. Mornings can be relaxed and enjoyable for all of you – but only if you plan them. The time before your children go to bed is a great time to get planning for a relaxed morning underway. Here is what you can do to help: