Bedtime say what?!

I just went running around my neighborhood and was surprised at how many kids I saw out playing in their yards. Why is that strange you might ask? Well, it is 8:45 at night...

What happened to bedtime?!

 I saw at least 10 kids under the age of 5 out and about riding bikes, playing ball, and hanging out in their yards. 

no sign of pajamas...

...no cuddly bedtime stories...

...no winding down to end the day....

Rather than passing judgement because I am not a parent, I will say, it must be hard to be a parent when it is totally light outside until after 9:00! Why would kids in Portland want to go to bed when they finally see the sun after months of rain and it is warm and sunny until 9:00 at night. If they went to bed, they would miss some prime playing time!!

As a teacher, I get frustrated when it comes to bedtime because there are parents who do not have any sort of reasonable schedule for their young children. I had one student this year going to bed at 11:00 at night because his mom really didn't understand that little kids needs LOTS of sleep and need to get to bed by 8:00 or 8:30. Once our counselor discussed it with her, she changed the family habits and it helped a lot, but I still find it sad that some parents are not aware of fundamental aspects of wellness for children. Like I said, I am not a parent, but I do know that kids thrive on schedules and predictable routines and going to bed at 11:00 simply does not make sense for a young child who needs to be alert and ready for a full day/week of school. 

I am seeing the effects of over tiredness, illness, and almost end of the school year-itis in a major way. Yesterday I had NINE students absent and today SIX. Something yucky is going around and getting enough sleep is important in order to stay healthy. 

Even though it remains light out, I think it is important to maintain a proper bedtime schedule on school nights. During summer vacation, let them stay up as late as they want, but for these last few precious days of school, put them to bed!

Some tips for an effective bedtime from ehow.com

1. Step1

   Have a designated bedtime. Decide whether the time you are choosing is the actual time you want the kids in bed or the time you want the bedtime routine to begin. Whatever the case, stick to that time. On the weekend of course you can push the time back a few hours as needed, but try to stick to the routine even on the weekend.

2. Step2

   Plan out what the course of events will be that will make up this bedtime routine. Always start out with an activity that can transition your child from their current activities to bedtime. They can, straightening up their room by putting away stray toys or clothes. If their room is already clean, they can quietly play or read for about 15 to 30 minutes. Make sure you call out a count down to bedtime to prevent tantrums. Such as, “one hour to bedtime, 30 minutes to bedtime, or 15 minutes to bedtime.”

3. Step3

   The routine itself should take about 30 to 45 minutes and consist of some if not all of the five main points that I’m about to mention. 1. Putting on their pajamas. 2. Brushing their teeth 3. At least 15 minutes of face to face time with the person putting the child to bed 4. Making sure you child is comfortable 5. Saying goodnight

4. Step4

   Depending on the child’s age, try to let them do as much as they can on their own. You should let the child choose his/her own pajamas and also let them put the toothpaste on by themselves.

5. Step5

   I found that the face to face time is best spent reading a couples of stories to the child. Let them choose the books. Involve them in the story by asking simple questions, such as “why did that happen or what do you think will happen next?” There are alternatives to reading a story such as singing a few songs together or if it’s an older child just talking.

6. Step6

   Make sure your child is comfortable by giving them their favorite stuffed animal or blanket, a small glass of water or even by turning on a night light. The last part of this routine should be saying goodnight. If you’ve taught your child a prayer let them recite it or simply tuck your child in and give them a reassuring hug and goodnight kiss. Don’t forget to say I love you and good night.