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Bedtime. Sleep time. Nigh night time. Whichever way you say it to a child it means the same thing: Not playing. As we hear more and more today about how children are not getting the sleep they need it is time for us as parents to step up to the plate and give our kids the gift of sleep.

Bedtime is not difficult for everyone though. There are those children who love bedtime. They do exist. But, for the rest of us it is usually a nightly struggle that may take thirty minutes or all night to resolve. Rest assured there are many ways to embed the idea of getting into and staying in bed into your children's heads.

First begin by setting a limit as to when the TV gets turned off and stays off. There are so many shows for children today at almost all hours of the day, not to mention all the video games and computer stuff, it can be hard for children to resist the temptation to just keep playing or watching.

Second, especially for younger children, make bath time non playtime. We know they love their bath toys, but for a toddler it may make it even more difficult to get out of the bathtub. Try to make bath time fun time with you and child.

Third, it is very important to create a safe and comfortable place for your child to sleep. Getting them to bed on time will be more of a challenge if they find their bed unappealing. This doesn't mean you have to go and buy expensive sheets and comforters, but make it look nice and they may be more likely to want to cuddle up in their bed.

Fourth: Reading every night is vital to your child's development. But, it is also a great way to lull them to sleep. Have them pick out one or even two books and while you're reading, let them think you two are the only ones in the whole world. Feeling safe equals feeling more relaxed and you know what that means? You may actually get to bed before eleven o'clock at night! Reading before bed will also help your children enjoy reading and they may begin to read on their own before they fall asleep.

There are other bedtime routine activities. Have a child help put a stuffed animal or baby doll to bed. Sing a few songs together. Go for a walk after dinner. Sit outside and try to count all the stars you see. Put a slow song on and dance. Cuddle up together for a little while and let your child make up a story for you. If nothing else is working and you're a little sleep deprived yourself, grab a blanket and pillow and camp out next to their bed until they fall asleep.

Last, but certainly not least - STICK TO A ROUTINE. Even if you slide off of schedule, as long as you have got the routine down the majority of the time it will help children to know and prepare for bedtime. For those with younger children who are constantly getting out of bed, don't slack - put them back. Learn to use the word "no" for the constant "I need" children: I need water; I need food. Being consistent will pay off later and teach them it is better to just stay in bed and go to sleep.

Learn more about this author, Carisa Silvesan.
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