by JT Till

Created on: January 05, 2011   Last Updated: January 08, 2011

Does this sound familiar?

* Pleasssse Daddy, just one more story
* Can I have a drink of water?
* I’m not tired

These are all common bedtime sales techniques, used by toddlers testing their parents resolve to stay up just a little longer.  Children know that playing the sweet emotional card will many times get them what they want.  However, what this creates for the parents is an ongoing nightmare.

So, what can parents do to make the bedtime routine a pleasant one? The answer is really quite simple, start a bedtime routine. Toddlers, particularly from ages two to four, are just forming their own unique personalities and will do what ever they can to test their parents will and see what they can get away with.

Here are some helpful tips on making bedtime a more quiet and manageable occurrence.

* Let your child know fifteen minutes ahead of time that bedtime is  approaching. This is a good time to settle him or her down with a quiet activity to get them relaxed.

* Give them a nice warm bath, the water will help sooth them and make them more relaxed for sleep.  Hint: No toys in the water at bath time as this may stimulate their minds and you lose the relaxation effect.

* Let them pick out their favorite pj’s and stuffed animal to sleep with as this will help make bedtime fun for them and acknowledge that they can make their own choices.

* Get them a drink of water, milk, or juice; this will help cut down the extra drink ploy later.

* Tell your child that you will read him or her two bedtime stories, again, let the child pick out two of their favorite books. Let your child know that this is their limit and there will be no more stories read following that.

* Give your child a hug and a kiss and let them know that you will be right outside if they need you. This will give them a feeling of security and make it easier for them to sleep. Tell them that it is bedtime now but you look forward to seeing them in the morning.

In the event your child does get out of bed, firmly state that it is bedtime and just put them back in their bed and walk away. If he or she does it a second time, use no words this time, just pick them up and again put them to bed. Usually, one night of this dedicated effort will make your child aware that you are serious and he will finally comply with your wishes.

By doing  this on a regular basis, your child will come to understand exactly what is required of them. If you follow the above tips, bedtime should become a pleasant experience for both you and your child.

Source: Gagazine, raising better parents,http://www.gagazine.com/how-to-deal-with-bed time-tantrums/

Source: Nault, Kelly, Parenting Bedtime Nightmare over: How to Deal with Bedtime, Kids, Discipline and Fast !, http://www.ultimateparenting.com/pdf/bedtime_kids_di scipline.pdf

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