Bedtime tips

The foundation for good night’s sleep

When a child has enough to do during the day, outdoor activities and family time with the parents, he does not usually have continuous difficulties falling asleep. Temporary sleeping problems, on the other hand, are not uncommon. Too tired, frantic or distressed child does not fall asleep easily. A busy lifestyle may have an effect on child’s sleeping pattern. Slowing down activities for the whole family towards the night and sharing a peaceful moment in the evening gives a foundation for good sleep.

Instructions to reduce a child’s insomnia

• Arrange enough time for conversing with the child during the day.
• Keep to the same the evening routine every night and reserve enough time for it.
• Have supper together with your child: sit together.
• Watch your child to undress, having a wash etc. evening tasks, be happy for his independence.
• Read a bedtime story, rhyme or poem.
• Teach to fall asleep on his own: for instance 10 minutes for a book,
  then lights out with you in the room for a moment, sit or have a rest on the bed.
• If the child want something or wants to converse, just calmly tell him, no more talking, it’s time to go to sleep.

If a child keeps on waking up at night with no definite reason, the day routine should be checked:

• Is his nap too long?
• Does the child spend too much time on his own during the day, e.g. in bed or in a pram.

Avoid

• Bossing or forcing the child.
• Rushing the bedtime routine.
• Leaving the child alone in a dark room if the he is scared.
• Noise at bedtime.