9 Tips and Tricks for Creating a Calming Bedtime Routine When You Have Kids

It’s safe to say that everyone knows about the importance of having a bedtime routine for helping us get a good night’s sleep. But when you have kids, things can get tricky, because there are plenty of competing factors. Sometimes, it takes forever, plus an hour, to get your child to bed, and by that point, you’re exhausted — and restless. Maybe you find yourself zoning out on the couch or staring at the ceiling, thinking about the 100,000 things you need to do. And maybe you start doing them. Catch up on email. Unload the dishwasher, and load it back up. Sweep. Dust. Fold. Fix that random thing. Start organizing that random shelf. Maybe you work a split shift, and when your kids finally fall asleep, your job essentially resumes. You get back on your computer to edit, or brainstorm ideas, or pitch a project, or think through the week’s logistics. It’s also interesting that we put so much effort into making our kids’ bedtime routines genuinely calming and actually routine, but we don’t do the same for ourselves. Maybe we think it takes too much energy or effort, and those are the last things we have to give, especially in the evenings. However, whatever season of parenting you’re in, you can create a relaxing routine in the midst of a bit of kid chaos. It just takes some intention and consistent practice. Here’s a variety of realistic tips and tricks. Think simple. As Sara Robinson, MA, author of Self-Care for Moms and founder of...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: General Habits Mental Health and Wellness Parenting Self-Help Sleep Bedtime Children Hyperactivity Sleep Habits Sleep Hygiene Source Type: blogs