I think consistency and having a routine is key. Children thrive on that and it makes them feel more secure. If you try to do the same thing everynight .. for example; take bath, brush teeth, read books, say prayers (if you do that) etc .. you should try and keep things pretty much the same everynight and eventually your child will get used to it and it will just be a regular part of their day. Of course there will be times when circumstances won't allow it but that is like anything in life and kids are usually pretty good to adjusting if they feel safe and secure in their environment.
I made a mistake with my boys. I decided about a year and a half ago to let my husband be in charge of getting the kids to bed (we used to BOTH do it) and I started to go to the gym at that time. Bad idea. My kids were used to me being there and so as a result they started to do anything to stall and would get absolutely out of control .. it was totally unlike them. I think they really wanted to see how far they could go with their dad and quite frankly he is too "soft" with them - terrific father but not stern enough and they know it! I pushed my gym time back further and now go after they are in bed (although it exhausts me :P ). After we have read them stories, I let them lie in bed with a lamp on and they are allowed to read to themselves but they are not allowed to get out of bed unless it's for something serious. It works really well and usually within 15 - 20 minutes they are fast asleep. I just think having pretty much the same routine everynight is what works and it's best to start it at a young age.
|