As every parent knows, children love to go, go, go! They need lots of sleep to keep up their energy, but helping them get the rest they need isn’t always easy. Help your child get the rest she needs with these simple tips and bedtime can be breeze!
Why Sleep Matters
Children are naturally curious and might ask why they need to take regular naps or go to bed on time. Talk with your child about why sleep is important. You might say something like, “Sleep gives you the energy you need to play and learn all day!” Children between the ages of 3 and 5 typically need about 10 hours of sleep each night, as well as a nap during the day. Your three year old may need to nap for 60 minutes every day, whereas a five year old may need only 30 minutes of quiet time.
Watch Video: Resting is Just Right
Talk Together: Why does Baby Bear say that sleep is important?
Regular Routine Bedtime is easier when your child knows what to expect. As the parent, you decide what the appropriate bedtime is for your child. Leading up to the time you've set, keep a regular bedtime routine. For example, give your child a bath, talk, read, or tell bedtime stories together. After reading or telling a story, ask your child what she thinks her favorite character might do to get ready for bed and how that may be similar or different to her routine.
Watch Together:
Getting Ready to Sleep Talk Together:
What does this girl do to get ready for bed? Create Comfort Children need to feel safe. When you leave the bedroom, make sure it's a restful place for your child to sleep. The temperature, lights, and sounds in the room should not be too uncomfortable, scary, or distracting to your child. Let your child choose a favorite stuffed animal, doll, or blanket to take to bed with him. If he likes to rest to soothing music or ambient sound, turn this on as you are reading or drawing the bath.
Watch Together:
Andrea Bocelli’s Lullaby Talk Together:
How did Andrea Bocelli help Elmo fall asleep? What are some things that make you feel relaxed when you are tired? Monsters in the Closet If your child is afraid of the dark, give her a nightlight or keep a light on in the hall. Let her know she’s safe, but that it’s also okay to be afraid of the dark. If your child is afraid of monsters or other creepy crawlies, try filling a spray bottle with water and telling her it is “monster spray” to keep the monsters away! Spray the water in various places around her room to help her feel safe. You can also teach her a “secret “ trick — monsters can’t see children when they’re all the way under their covers! If your child wants to sleep in your bed with you, try staying with her until she is asleep, or sitting in the hallway where she knows you are close by.
Watch Together:
Noises in the Dark Talk Together:
What is the boy afraid of? What funny noises can you imagine in your room?
“Our nightly singing is the one part of the bedtime routine that Rachel truly enjoys. The soothing melodies of her favorite songs really seem to settle her down.”
—Rebecca Z. Jones
