Sleeping

There are many preschoolers who have problems sleeping. It can be frustrating for parents and kindergarten teachers to put the kids to nap or sleep at night. Here are some things that might help solve this problem.

Establish a routine and always stick to it. Kids feel more comfortable and secure when they know what’s going to happen next. Therefore, they can slowly drift into a peaceful sleep if they feel safe and relaxed.

The routine can start 1 hour before they should be in bed. Because some kids become restless, hyperactive when they are tired, try to keep a calm atmosphere. You can do that by using a noise player, a nightlight, bedtime stories, lullabies, classical music, by talking about your day, or simply by cuddling with your kid.

The routine should/can also include:

• bath time (with bubbles, some toys – you can even play that the toys are getting ready to go to bed);

• brushing your teeth together,

• washing her face;

• playing a quiet game;

• putting on the PJs (the child can decide which PJs to put on – but don’t give them too many options)

• saying “good night” to some of the toys;

• putting the toys in their bed and tucking them in;

• hugs and kisses from the parents;

• story time (read the kid’s favourite books – but avoid the ones with noises or fierce monsters/animals - or books about sleeping)

• singing some songs – these are my favourite naptime songs from Super Simple Songs: Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, Goodnight, Little Snowflake, Row, Row, Row Your Boat

• listening to some songs

Some other tips:

• try to follow the same routine both at home and at kindergarten

• don’t change the place where your child sleeps – neither the room, nor the bed

• don't let your kid decide when to go to sleep – stick to your schedule

• try to stay in the room for shorter and shorter periods of time – take care of some chores, but check on your kid and praise him/her if he/she is quiet and calm; reward the behaviour with an extra special kiss

• you can hide an object (a drawing, or something interesting) in the bed

I hope these tips will help!