Conquering the Bedtime Battle With Your Kids

Summer is gone it has been such an exciting time for your children. Chasing after the ice-cream truck, riding bikes, swimming in the pool – the activities were boundless for them. However, for parents, transitioning back into a school routine can be a bit of challenge, especially for bedtime. Since there was no school, bedtimes may have been pushed much later and the bedtime battle with the kids seems to be much more challenging getting back into a school “bedtime routine” . At our mattress store in Alpharetta, we believe that bedtime doesn’t have to be such a hassle, and we would like to share with you a few tips on making it easier for both the kids and the parents.

Reasons Why Your Kids Resist Bedtime

Sleep plays a vital role in the development of toddlers and school-age kids. Yes, summertime may be a factor that affects your child’s sleep schedule going into the fall, but are there any other reasons that make bedtime so difficult? Check out below the common reasons why children fight sleep.

• Nighttime fears (the dark, monster under the bed, etc.)
• Overstimulation
• Stress or anxiety
• Extra sleep during the day

Once you figure out the reason(s) why your child fights bedtime, it’d be much easier to find ways to ease them into bed and get enough amount of sleep.

Tips on Conquering the Bedtime Battle with Your Kids

Address What Bothers Your Child

Many kids often dread bedtime due to fears of things like a dark room or monsters in the closet. As parents, you need to identify the fear and help your children overcome it. According to the Cleveland Clinic, if your child is scared of an imaginative creature, you should not validate its existence by saying things like “I’ve checked and I didn’t find it” or “I’ll destroy it.” Instead, you should focus on reassuring them that they are in a safe environment and that you are right in the bedroom down the hall should they need you. If he, or she, is afraid of the dark, nightlights can be a great source of comfort.

Stick to a Schedule

Sticking to a fixed sleep schedule is not always easy for parents, but it is worth the effort because it helps to provide the structure that children need. Set clear expectations with your kids and let them know when the times for nap and night sleep are. Even when it is the weekend, summertime or school time, their sleep schedule should not change because things will get chaotic. By practicing and enforcing consistency, not only will they get a better night’s sleep but, you will be making bedtime a lot easier.

Set up a Bedtime Routine

At our mattress store in Alpharetta, we believe that a bedtime routine is crucial to all children. It helps build good sleep habits and allow them to wake up feeling refreshed the next day. One bedtime routine tip that parents like to use is 3 B’s – bath, book, and bed. Whatever activities that you choose to add to the routine, make sure that they are calming and positive, preferably screen-free.

Make the Bedroom Comfortable

Creating a peaceful, relaxing bedroom is key to a child’s good sleep. First of all, the room should be distraction-free with no TVs or computers. If possible, you should make sure that it is well-insulated to keep out noises that may wake your child up. Secondly, pick out a twin mattress that can keep them comfortable while providing the right support throughout the night. Opt for washable and waterproof cover options since kids’ mattresses can get messy without one. Finally, choose bedding that is soft and cozy. Stuffed animals and security blankets make a great addition to your kid’s bedroom.

Let Our Mattress Store in Alpharetta Take Care of Your Child’s Sleep

At Fred’s Beds, we believe that bedtime for your kids can be positive and hassle-free. With our high-quality, supportive twin mattresses, your kids will feel so comfortable that they will fall asleep in no time. We also offer sheets and pillows that will provide the comfort that they need. Bedtime should be a calming time when you can bond with your children, and we are happy to help you to achieve that.

As of June 1st, 2020, our business hours have changed. They are now 9 AM –5 PM from Monday to Friday and 9 AM – 3 PM on Saturdays. We’re still seeing our customers by appointment only. To schedule one, please call (770) 988-1834 or email Mike at mike@freds-beds.com.