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Bedtime Routine

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-450 -- More Projects »
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Offer children a light, warm snack before bedtime, such as a cup of soup or grilled cheese sandwich.
Family expert Dr. Bra Vada Garrett-Akinsanya joins TIPical Mary Ellen host Mary Ellen Pinkham to share some tips on getting children ready for bedtime.
  • Children should have the same bedtime every night. It is very important to establish and stick with a routine.

  • Have children pick up their toys and art materials one hour before bedtime. Encourage them to play a relaxing board game or engage in a similar activity that will not rile them up.

  • Bathing children before bedtime also helps to relax them. Make it a calm bath, not playtime. Cut back on the number of bath toys if necessary.

  • Have the child's favorite pajamas and blanket laid out and waiting after the bath.

  • Let a child assist in picking out their outfit for the next day and lay the outfit out. This helps prepare the child for the next day's activities.

  • Read a book of appropriate length to a child about 15 to 30 minutes before bedtime.

  • Turn on some soft music for the child to listen to while falling asleep.

  • If the child has a favorite stuffed animal or pillow, make sure it's waiting in bed.

  • Always tell a child that you love him or her, then say goodnight.
Also in this Episode
TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-450
•Bedtime Routine
•Uses for Zipper Bags
•Removing Bumper Stickers
•Tip of the Day
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