Bedtime can sometimes be a battle between a parent and toddler. Reason for this is that either your child is beginning to enjoy his/her newfound independence and likes to take control of everything around, or just dislikes being alone for that matter. The question many could be asking: What can we parents do about children who like to control and stall bedtimes?
Spend time with your child. You may calmly sing a song, read a bedtime story or even ask your child how his/her day went. It is highly important to communicate, for your child might want to open up and say something to you. It is also completely normal for a child to be fighting off sleep most especially when the parent wasn’t around the whole day.
Stick to a routine. Having a reward chart (depending on your child’s age) might be a good idea. This can include responsibilities such as brushing teeth, bathing, eating vegetables and fruits, making the bed and even saying goodnight with a cuddle and kiss. Getting used to a routine can help your child settle into bed on time.
Motivate your child. Children deserve rewards to a certain extent. Rewards do not mean the constant giving of material things. This can instead be a trip to the playground or having a friend come over to play. Looking forward to these simple things can easily have your child follow rules, such as going to bed on time without any issues.
Give your child a choice. This should make them feel more independent. You may want to ask your child just short before bedtime if he/she would like a drink of water or which book he/she wants you to read. In short, you are implying that it is time to go to bed, but ofcourse being more indirect but still giving your child a choice.
Always be reasonably firm. Speak calmly and explain to your child that it is now time to go to bed. A well-disciplined child would normally listen, might throw a fit for a minute or two, but eventually be convinced.
Teach your child how to fall asleep alone. And start young to avoid your little one being too dependent of you by not teaching them “scary†stuff such a boogiemen, etc. Let your child know that you will be there wh en he/she gets up. This is probably one of the easiest routines to follow.
Let’s hope that this problem is easily solved!
Helpful Resource: www.babycentre.com; www.parents.com