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Five Ways to Reset Bedtime

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Is Your Child Having a Hard Time Falling Asleep?

It could be a growth spurt, stress, or an illness that had them waking at night.

1. Children begin to resist bedtime and sleep for many reasons. 

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What activities could help your child reset their nervous system? It may be the opposite of what you think 'should' be in a bedtime routine.

2. Bedtime Routines Work By Calming the Nervous System. 

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Research shows that having a consistent bedtime routine helps your child:

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✶ Fall asleep faster  ✶ Have fewer night wakings ✶ Sleep longer

1. For the child who is being silly at bedtime…Be Silly!

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It seems like the opposite of what you want to do at bedtime, but blowing off steam is exactly what some kids need to release stress at the end of the day.

2. For the child who is clingy at bedtime…Have Special Time

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Say to your child “I am looking forward to some Special Time with you tonight! 

2. For the child who is clingy at bedtime…Have Special Time

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We can play with something in your room, color, or talk. It’s your choice for 20 minutes.”

3. For the child who is acting out at bedtime… Try a Multi-Sensory Reset Bath

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Baths are multi-sensory and affect core body temperature, both of which can be a signal to the body to wind down.

Here are some ideas for a Multi-Sensory Reset Bath:

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 ✶ Turn down the lights and use glow-sticks!   ✶ Turn down the lights and use glow sticks!  ✶ Turn on relaxing music during bathtime.

Here are some ideas for a Multi-Sensory Reset Bath:

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✶ Make some playdough soap for sensory fun! ✶ Make your own bathtime paint for a multi-sensory experience. ✶ Put plastic eggs in the bath and give them a mask and snorkel to search underwater.

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Click through for the rest of the list and a free guided progressive relaxation printable!

Pink Blob

Is Your Child Having a Hard Time Falling Asleep?