When I hear parents of younger kids lamenting about early risers who wake at the crack of dawn, I can relate. However, I often caution them against wishing those days away too quickly. The cheerful giggles of toddlers in the early morning light are far preferable to the sulky demeanor of a sleeping teenager.
As a parent, I experienced early mornings with my sons, who were once energetic little ones. Luckily, they weren’t prone to acrobatics as soon as they awoke, which was a blessing considering my late nights working on freelance projects. Even so, the 6 a.m. wake-up call felt early. To make mornings manageable, I relied on educational shows like Sesame Street and Mr. Rogers, as well as the occasional cartoon gifted by family. But as the years passed, my little boys grew into teenagers, and the wake-up routines evolved—now, I found myself checking on them primarily to ensure they were still breathing.
As a self-declared expert on waking sleeping teenagers, I’ve gathered a wealth of knowledge that I wish to share.
What Not to Do:
- Remove Privileges: In moments of frustration, it’s tempting to assert authority by taking away privileges. However, remember that your teen years can stretch on for a while. Threats will often lead to indifference, resulting in a cycle of resentment.
- Invest in Multiple Alarms: While it may seem like a good idea, your teen will likely tune out any alarm you purchase—no matter how creative. Even alarms that mimic roosters or recite movie lines will become part of their dreamscape.
- Send in the Family Pet: This strategy often backfires, as pets can make them feel cozy and happy, leading to them drifting back to sleep.
What You Should Do:
- Cook Breakfast: Quietly enter their room and head to the kitchen to prepare bacon or another enticing meal. The aroma alone can serve as a gentle nudge to wake up.
- Annoy Them: This may sound counterintuitive, but raising the blinds or turning on the lights can provoke a reaction. A cheerful “Good morning!” can result in a groggy comeback, usually met with a grunt or a half-hearted “I’m up, Mom!”—despite the fact that they are not.
- Send a Text: Surprisingly, teens often respond to text notifications more readily than alarm clocks. Consider sending a message that includes an enticing offer, such as a trip to their favorite sandwich shop; this can work wonders.
- Turn on Cartoons: Many teens secretly miss their childhood shows. A few moments of nostalgic entertainment can coax them out of bed, making for a more pleasant start to the day.
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In summary, waking a sleeping teenager can be a delicate balance between gentle motivation and avoiding conflict. With the right approach, you can ease them into the day without causing a stir.