I noticed it was taking longer, and longer to get my girls calmed down and "ready" for bed. Especially, L. Though they were in jammies and teeth brushed, they were still in that rowdy mode that seems to happen after dinner. My hubby suggested we move the bedtime up later. I pondered, they are 7 1/2 now, but I felt 8pm was plenty late enough already. (we start the undressing, etc.. around 7:30)
I decided to try another route first and so far it is working like a charm!
I announced one night if they were all ready and quietly lying in bed, they would get a lavender back rub and 2 books read to them. They scrambled quickly!
I dimmed the lights, lit a beeswax candle and rubbed some lavender back-rub oil onto their backs. While I rubbed, I started talking about the day and asking them to visualize what they enjoyed and what they were grateful for.
They were so quiet when I read I couldn't believe it! I kissed them good night, closed the door and they were sailing sweetly off to dreamland.
I am definitely going to try that. Though in my case it might also help if we were a wee bit more regular with the bedtime, which is hard at times with my schedule. I happen to have lavender in the cabinet. ;)
ReplyDeletethanks for sharing!
Great idea, think we will try tonight.
ReplyDelete