Pre-Sleep Ritual

TITLE:  The Importance of a Pre-Sleep Ritual: A Parent's Guide

 True Story:

In my program, I emphasize the significance of a pre-sleep ritual, a practice that typically spans 45 minutes to an hour. Initially, many parents are taken aback by this duration, but its impact on minimizing bedtime resistance cannot be overstated. Recently, my family experienced firsthand the consequences of deviating from our usual routine.

After picking up our children from childcare, we decided to enjoy the pleasant weather at the park, deviating from our typical evening schedule. Consequently, dinner was delayed, and the children's bedtime routine was pushed back. Despite their usual adaptability, our children displayed signs of restlessness due to the rushed nature of our evening.

With my husband needing to leave promptly at 7:30 PM, we hurried through the bedtime ritual, skipping the quiet playtime and storytelling session. Unsurprisingly, our children resisted sleep, yearning for additional time to wind down and connect with us. Their clinginess stemmed not from genuine neediness but from a lack of opportunity to transition from the day's excitement to a state of restfulness.

Realizing our mistake, I took a few extra minutes to engage with them, allowing them to share their secrets and concerns before tucking them in once again. This brief but meaningful interaction reassured them, facilitating a smoother transition to sleep

What This Means For You:

Cutting short the pre-sleep ritual can disrupt your child's ability to wind down effectively, leading to resistance and clinginess at bedtime. Just as adults need time to unwind before sleep, children benefit from a calming routine that signals the transition to bedtime. By prioritizing this ritual, you not only facilitate better sleep but also strengthen your bond with your child.

What You Can Do Now:

If you find yourself tempted to rush through the bedtime routine, pause and reconsider. Allocate sufficient time for your child to unwind and connect with you before sleep. Engage in soothing activities such as reading a book, sharing secrets, or simply chatting about their day. Remember, investing in a pre-sleep ritual yields long-term benefits for your child's sleep quality and emotional well-being.

Closing:

As you reflect on this true story, remember that investing time in your child's bedtime routine is an investment in their well-being and your relationship with them. By prioritizing moments of connection and relaxation before sleep, you can nurture a positive sleep environment and cultivate lasting bonds with your child. As you navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood, remember the importance of a pre-sleep ritual in fostering a peaceful bedtime routine. By dedicating time to connect with your child before sleep, you lay the foundation for restful nights and cherished moments together. Embrace the opportunity to create lasting memories and ensure your child drifts off to sleep feeling loved and secure.

Get Your Child to Sleep Through the Night Quickly and Easily Without Fuss, Tears, or Frustration

(From You or Your Child!) 

Sleeping On Purpose

By: Ruth Tai