There are a number of factors that can make your child struggle to sleep alone. Here we have compiled some of the best ways to combat this problem.
Remove distractions
Televisions, computers and electronic devices might be a great way to keep your child busy for a little while, but try to keep them off of them in the hour leading to bed time. It’s all about creating an environment and ambience that is conducive to sleep and the stimulation that TV, gaming and screens produce is not the right way to prepare for a sleep.
Create a bedtime routine
Think about the best way that your child will slowly wind down into a relaxing sleeping state. Ideas for this include taking a warm bath, putting on pyjamas, brushing teeth and a good-night story. This regular habit allows youngsters to feel a lot calmer and more familiar with a routine, lowering any anxiety and ensuring security before bed.
Minimize your presence
Try and remove yourself from the room before your child actually falls asleep, so that they are able to know they are capable of falling asleep without you in the room. If you do have to stay to begin with, try and minimise the interaction with him or her, and make an effort to move further away each night until you don’t need to be there.
Establish a sense of security
Some children will feel scared alone, will think there is a monster under the bed, or will be scared of burglars. Ways to combat this is to use the aforementioned bed time routine, but also to incorporate stuffed animals, teddy bears and blankets. Using a build a bear kit allows children to make their very own cuddly friend, which has proved more effective that a generic teddy bear.
Take is easy
Nothing worthwhile was ever achieved instantly. Some parents like to tell their child they’ll come back and check on them in a few minutes. Try and keep your word with this, but don’t come back too quickly. Start with a 5-10 minute gap. Too short could keep your child awake while too long may lead them into a more anxious state. Work out what works best for you and your child.
Remain consistent
If your child is sneaking into your bed at night, accompany him or her back to their room without much of an ordeal. It is important to be firm but calm, make it clear that they have to stay in their own bed.
Reward good children
If they have behaved well in the night, make them aware of it the next morning by allowing them to choose their breakfast, choose their outfit or if they’ve shown a real good period of good behaviour, treat them to a build a bear kit, where they can make their own friend to cuddle every night.
Try and keep things consistent and remember that securing these habits will take time and effort. Be persistent and your child will eventually learn to sleep in their own bed without any issues!
