We just finished week two of the new school year and everyone is settling in nicely and getting used to our schedule and routine of the day!
Routines are so, so important whether at school or home. Just like adults, children feel more confident and secure when their days are predictable and familiar.
Routines can help children learn and understand healthy habits, like brushing their teeth, taking their daily vitamins or medicine, taking baths or showers, washing their hands, and even moving their bodies.
This can be beneficial in so many ways as it can be good for children’s health. For example, when children are consistently washing their hands, they are less likely to get colds and other common illnesses.
Having a routine can help children feel less stressed, anxious, or sad during difficult times.
When there is a consistent routine, our bodies begin understanding and adjusting to bedtime routines. They will “know” when it’s time for bed at night. This will also help with wake-up time in the morning and will help eliminate stressful, rushed mornings.
Here are 6 tips to help your child get a good night’s sleep!
- Set a regular bedtime and wake-up schedule for your child and stick to it.
- Make your child’s bedroom a quiet, dark, and cool environment for sleeping.
- Establish a relaxing bedtime routine. A warm bath before bed, listening to soft music, and storytime, all help a child relax and settle down.
- Avoid giving sugary foods or drinks.
- Avoid scary stories or TV shows and movies before bed. Even the evening news may be troubling to children before bed.
- Make sure your child gets regular exercise. Avoid vigorous activities right before bed.
Be sure to come back next week as we will be focusing on the theme “My Family & Me”!
