Conquering Bedtime Struggles with Healthy Sleep Habits
Bedtime struggles are real, and they can bring parents—like you and me—to our breaking point. It's the end of the day, and everyone is tired, which means more room for meltdowns and tantrums from our kids... and, let’s be real, from us too. With positive discipline, we are aiming for power-with parenting—mutual respect, clear expectations, firm kindness, and teaching life skills so our children can leave the nest with healthy habits as they grow into adulthood.
So let’s talk sleep hygiene. What is sleep hygiene and what does it have to do with parenting?!? I’m so glad you asked…
What is Sleep Hygiene?
Sleep hygiene refers to the habits and routines that promote good, sound rest for our bodies. When we teach our children healthy sleep habits, we help them learn how to:
Get a good night’s sleep—leading to fewer tantrums and grumpy moods.
Care for themselves—so we don’t have to do everything for them.
Wake up feeling ready for the day—leading to smoother mornings.
Feel empowered—so we support them instead of controlling them.
Umm… yes, please! I’ll take them all!
So as parents, keep in mind, we get to teach these skill s to our children. What a gift! It doesn’t make it easy but it’s well worth the fight when we keep the end in mind- healthy, thriving adults. So how do we do that? We focus on what we can control by building healthy sleep routines.
Building Healthy Sleep Routines
A good nighttime routine starts with clear boundaries on time—lights off, bedtime, and winding down. This means shifting from active play, screens, and chores to calming and connecting activities.
Calming activities:
Reading a book
Weighted blankets
Essential oils
Soft music or white noise
Dimming lights
Cozy pajamas
Gentle massage or warm bath
Think anything to do with the 5 senses that is calming!
Connecting activities:
Reading together
Snuggling or back rubs
Talking about the day
Brushing teeth together
Note that connection doesn’t have to be while in bed, especially if you have a child who claws at you to never leave your side! It can be while brushing their hair at the sink in the bathroom or snuggling while reading a book right after dinner. Just sometime during the evening wind-down, find a time to connect. To really be present. To let you heart be filled with the joy and love of raising this beautiful soul! You’ll thank me later! We need these moments of connection just as much as our kiddos do- so give yourself permission to enjoy your wonderful children.
Where We Get Stuck
Busy schedules make bedtime routines tricky—I get it! My three kids all play premier soccer, so I know how crazy evenings can be. But if sleep is important to you (and it should be!), remember that it impacts school performance, mental health, self-control, and overall well-being. Parents, you are in control of your child’s schedule and screens. Prioritizing sleep now sets them up for long-term health and success.
A Sleep Support Favorite
One of my children’s bedtime ritual favorites is the screen-free sleep meditation, Zenimal Kids+ Turtle. I love it because it helps ease sleep anxiety and guides the child (or us parents- yes I have one too!) into a deep sleep. It’s also great for kids when they are up again in the middle of the night and need a little help without waking us up! It’s completely screen free and doesn’t require- yet, another!- cord to plug into the wall!
Get 10% off with the coupon code NEWHORIZONS or visit zenimals.com/NEWHORIZONS to claim your discount.
Have more questions about bedtime struggles or positive parenting? I’d love to help! Book a free discovery call or send me a message at newhorizonsparenting@gmail.com.
Better sleep = happier kids = a smoother night for everyone. Win-win!
