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Bedtime can be a stressful part of the day for parents. It doesn’t have to be, though. There are many things that you can do to make bedtime fun for your children. If there is something to look forward to at bedtime, children won’t fight it as much.
Younger children always welcome bedtime stories. Depending on the age of your child, you’ll want to choose a few short books or one longer book. Be sure that your child can easily see the pictures. Discuss the story after you are finished reading. Be sure to ask your child if they enjoyed the book.
If your child is old enough to be reading, have them read a book of their choice aloud to you. Not only is this fun for your child, but helpful as well. Children love to show off what they have learned. They crave your attention and praise.
If you are running short of time for reading, let your child listen to a tape. You can use a story tape, a tape of bedtime songs, or soft music. Be sure that the volume isn’t too loud, and turn out the lights so that your child can go to sleep. These tapes are great as a sleep aid and fun, too.
A group story is an excellent idea for older children. This can be a lot of fun for more than one child. Start off by telling a beginning line for a story. Allow each person to add something to the story, and then pass it onto the next. This activity can make for some entertaining stories, and gives a parent and child the opportunity to interact with each other.
Use bedtime as a discussion time. Ask your child about what happened during their day, and tell them about yours. Talk about what you plan to be doing the following day. Life can be so hectic that we don’t have time to talk. A conversation with your child before bed can be a great ending to the day for both of you.
Give your child something to think about while they lay in bed. You can tell them about an upcoming occasion or event. You can talk to them about things that are happening to other members of the family. If nothing else, ask them to think about what they would like for dinner the following evening.
Play a game with your child while they rest in bed. There are many games that are played without aids. Most children love I-Spy or I See Something You Don’t See. You can also try a list game. Start with a subject such as “animal,” and go back and forth thinking of animals that start with each letter of the alphabet. Try riddles or telling them jokes from a children’s joke book, as well.
Children will look forward to bedtime if you do something together after they are settled in bed. You can both relax and enjoy this time rather than dreading it. When bedtime is another fun part of the day, rather than the end of it, your child will happily snuggle under the covers.
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