How to Stop Bedtime Stalling in Kids

Getting your kids to bed on time is a necessary part of parenting, but there’s no denying that bedtime stalling is common among children of all ages. Bedtime stalling can leave parents frustrated and exhausted, and it can have long-term repercussions on the health and wellbeing of both parents and children. Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to help facilitate an easy bedtime transition for all involved.

Bedtime stalling tactics like asking for water, extra hugs, and other diversions can be difficult for parents to overcome, but it’s important to stay in control of the situation. When kids start stalling, it can be helpful to remind them that there is a routine in place and that it needs to be followed in order to get to bed on time. Setting a pre-bedtime routine and sticking to it can help to keep kids on track as they move toward bed.

It can also be helpful to establish consistent rules and expectations when it comes to bedtime. Let kids know how much time they have to get ready for bed and when lights out is expected. This helps them understand what their nightly routine is and maintain regular sleep patterns. If your child is having difficulty following a routine, try breaking down tasks into smaller steps and providing positive reinforcement when they complete their goals.

Create a Relaxing Bedtime Environment

Creating a calming routine for bedtime can help to stop bedtime stalling in kids. Establishing a relaxing nighttime environment can help children to settle down faster and begin to transition into sleep with ease. This can be as simple as dimming the lights, playing soft music, or reading stories. Whatever the case, creating a physical and emotional environment that allows kids to calm down and relax will help them to embrace the sleep routine and get to bed on time.

You should also consider banning screens from the bedroom an hour or two before bedtime. The blue light from electronic devices delays the body’s production of melatonin, which is the hormone that induces sleepiness. With screens out of sight well ahead of bedtime, children can quiet their minds and settle into sleep with ease.

Create Bedtime Routines That Fit Your Child’s Needs

When creating bedtime routines, one size does not fit all. Every child is different and may need different routines to help them transition to sleep. Talk to your child to get a better understanding of what specific sleep routines they need. This could include different activities like reading stories, talking about their day, playing calming sounds, saying prayers, or drawing pictures.

It may also be helpful to involve your child in the bedtime preparation process. This could include helping to pick out pajamas or choosing a book to read at bedtime. Helping your child to create the routines that meet their needs can make them more comfortable with and cooperative with the routine.

When possible, try to make bedtime an enjoyable experience for both you and your child. Making bedtime something fun to look forward to can help to reduce any stalling that occurs and make the transition from day to night easier.

Things to Avoid Before Bedtime

• Avoid giving your child sugary snacks before going to bed
• Do not allow your child to exercise or play heavily right before bed
• Do not discuss or worry about stressful topics before bed
• Avoid caffeine or other stimulants
• Do not allow electronic devices into the bedroom

Conclusion

Bedtime stalling can be an exhausting and frustrating part of parenting, but it is possible to stop the behavior with patience and the right strategies. Establishing a bedtime routine that meets your child’s needs and avoiding certain activities and foods before sleep can help your child to transition into sleep with ease and get the restful night they need.