Kitchenability

04.11.2019

Tips for Teaching Your Child the ABCs of Getting Good ZZZs

Guest Contribution: Laurie Larson

Our sleep is vital to our good health, our peace of mind, and our growth. When it comes to your children, you’ll want to make sure you set them up for their best chance at success in all of these areas, so it’s important that you teach them the value of good sleep and the steps necessary to achieve healthy sleeping habits. These five tips will walk you through how to teach your child the ABCs of getting good ZZZs.

1. Do your own research first

One of the reasons kids dread bedtime is because it’s a signal that the fun playtime has ended. If you can make bedtime exciting, you can convince your kid that bedtime isn’t so bad after all. Develop a nightly ritual with your child that makes them look forward to bedtime, whether it be a secret goodnight handshake that you make up or a small dance party you schedule each night, finding a fun element to bedtime will shift your child’s attitude about bedtime in a positive direction.

2. Make bedtime fun

As children grow, the amount of sleep they need changes, and so too do other habits that may affect their sleeping habits. Before you worry about your child’s sleeping schedule, be sure you know how much sleep your child should be getting at their age.

3. Allow them to make their own choices

The best way to learn a lesson is the hard way. If your child is extremely anti-bedtime, let them choose their own. When they’re exhausted the next day, remind them of their late night fiascos so they can begin to connect the ideas of rest and rejuvenation. Sometimes that can be the kick in the boots they need to stick to a certain bedtime.

Giving your child the bedroom of their dreams may be all it takes to send them into dreamland with ease. Allow your child to be in on the design, picking a fun theme and cool accents. Of course, you need to make sure it’s still optimal for sleep. Bright colors on the wall may be too stimulating for sleep, so stick to neutrals with fun accents.

4. Create a dream bedroom

Sleep goes beyond the bedroom. Your child’s lifestyle will have a big impact on their sleeping habits. Be sure you teach your child the importance of staying active and burning off energy each day. A healthy diet is also a contributor to sleeping habits, particularly when it comes to caffeine and sugars. Set them on the right path by teaching them how to live a holistically healthy lifestyle.

5. Teach your child healthy habits

Healthy sleep is important and shouldn’t be ignored. If you suspect your child may have a sleeping disorder, you should consult with a medical professional to devise the best treatment plan.