Let's face it: bedtime with kids can be downright exhausting. They tap into their reserve energy sources and we end up being the ones more ready for bed. Add to it the transition to a big kid bed and it can spell disaster. But, it doesn't have to! If you have kids exploring their nighttime freedom and finding their way out of their beds again and again, I have some tips to help you out:
First, practicing bedtime is so helpful. Preparation is huge for kids, and clear expectations help them rise to the occasion. You can practice bedtime during the day, making a fun game out of it that will spill over into the nighttime routine. Do it in the living room or wherever--have them play through the whole thing: pretend to get PJ's on, brush teeth, then talk about staying in bed. Making it fun is soooo helpful for so many things.
We have also done a chart with a BIG reward sitting right there on the fridge, waiting for the chart to be completed. If they're old/mature enough, we make the chart two weeks straight. If they miss a night, they start again. This really helps to change habits.
But, the best thing we have done is verbally reward a lot (A LOT!) when they do the bedtime routine and then stay in bed all night without coming out. We shower them with praise, telling them how proud we are of them!
I hope some of these will help you and your little nighttime wanderers. :-)
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