Your Teaching Practice
Can you think of a bedtime ritual that you have used effectively with your own children or the children in your care? What was it? How did it make the child feel about going to sleep?
Although I don’t have kids and have never had any under my care, I did have my own bedtime routines when I was a kid. Before going to bed and after dinner, I would occasionally take warm bubble baths. Even as a child, I have always cherished warm baths. Once I had a good, warm bath and got into bed, my body would feel so relaxed and my bed would feel more comfortable than before. I was so at ease that falling asleep would have been simple for me. Because I disliked sleeping in the dark, since I never had a night light, Instead I would always turn on the TV and watch a small portion of movies until I fell asleep. Not only did I not enjoy sleeping in utter darkness, but I also disliked sleeping in complete silence. I’ve even been known to just lay in bed listening to music. I haven’t changed since I was a child; I still enjoy taking warm baths or showers and watch tv before going to bed.
Take time to consider each child in your room. What are his sleep patterns like? How does he prefer to fall asleep? What is his mood generally like when he wakes up?
Each child is unique. The book advises us to become familiar with each child’s unique napping style; close monitoring enables you to recognize and accommodate the kids’ sleeping habits. While some kids like some quiet time before getting started, others come up eager to play. Some kids fall asleep almost right away, while others take longer. Children have their own nap patterns that vary depending on their age. Singing, playing music, rocking, massaging a child’s back, and reading a story are a few common techniques. Children frequently find it easier to unwind before going to sleep when the lights are dimmed and pleasant music is playing. Some kids can even sob before going to bed to let off their frustration. Some people cry because they are too worn out or scared. Some children may cry briefly before going to sleep. Some people require picking up and holding in order to calm down.