Monday, November 9, 2009
Chapter 9: A Good Night's Sleep Begins in the Morning
Sleep time is NOT bedtime. Sleep time is the moment when your child is asleep. Bedtime is the time you begin your routine for preparing for bed and the final wind-down before sleep time. The author talks about the importance of catching the "window" for sleep. How in tune are you with your child's "window" for sleep?
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In our house, bedtime is usually around 6:45 p.m. with sleep time being around 7:15 p.m. I know - some people think I'm crazy but it just works for my children! I try to pay attention to my children's behaviors that may indicate that they are overly tired and I will adjust sleep and bedtimes accordingly. There have been many nights that my children have been in the bed asleep by 6:30 p.m. because they were whining, more easily frustrated, fussing with each other, etc... and I just knew they needed more sleep! I must confess that there have also been many nights when I knew my children needed to be in bed earlier but I got caught up doing things around the house, talking on the phone, or checking email and just didn't stop to take the time to get them in the bed. As a result, it took them alot longer to relax and fall asleep. It's not an exact science but I think most parents who are willing to make the effort can become more in tune with their child's window for sleep. I think it's important for parents to remember that overly tired children often appear wired which can cause parents to think that they are not ready for bed. Don't let that behavior fool you. I love the author's recommendations for bedtime and sleep time based on the child's necessary wake time! This helps take the guess work out of whether your child is really ready for bed.
ReplyDeleteI am looking for that window of sleep for my children. I hope that I am able to identify it soon.
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