How to Gently Rouse a Sleeping Teenager (Without Starting a Family Feud)

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Parenting Tips

By Jenna L. Montgomery
Updated: August 3, 2023
Originally Published: September 10, 2010

As a parent, it’s easy to reminisce about the days when your little ones bounced out of bed at the crack of dawn, eager to embrace the day. If you’re one of those parents dreaming of those early mornings, beware: transitioning from chipper toddlers to sleepy teenagers can feel like trading a sunny day for a thunderstorm.

When my kids were young, they woke up with the sun, and though I sometimes wished for a few extra minutes of sleep—especially after long nights of work—those early risers were far less challenging than the moody teens that came later. My sons, who once greeted the day with giggles, now seemed to have mastered the art of hibernation. I learned quickly that waking them up was a whole new ballgame.

Here’s what I’ve gathered after countless hours of trial and error in the realm of teenage wake-up calls:

What to Avoid:

1. Threatening Consequences: In moments of frustration, it’s tempting to wield the privilege-revoking sword. However, teens are notoriously stubborn, and this tactic often leads to more eye rolls than compliance.
2. Investing in Fancy Alarm Clocks: You might think that multiple quirky alarms would do the trick, but more often than not, they become part of their dreamscape. I’ve tried rooster sounds, movie quotes, and even alarms that escalate in volume—yet, they still manage to sleep through it all.
3. Sending in Pets: Believe it or not, using the family dog to wake them up can backfire spectacularly. Instead of being roused, they may find it cozy to cuddle with their furry friend and drift back to sleep, keeping the dream alive a little longer.

What Works:

1. Delicious Breakfast: Start frying up some bacon or pancakes. The aroma wafting through the house will work wonders, and you likely won’t need to utter a single word. It’s like magic.
2. Light Up Their Room: While it may seem innocuous, opening blinds or flicking on the lights can provoke a strong reaction. A cheerful “good morning!” might just earn you a sarcastic reply or a grumpy groan, but at least it will get them moving—eventually.
3. Send a Text Message: For some reason, a simple text notification can cut through the fog of sleep better than any alarm. Offer to take them for a quick breakfast at their favorite spot, like Subway, because, believe it or not, the thought of food can ignite their motivation.
4. Cartoon Time: When all else fails, pull out nostalgic cartoons. Many teens secretly miss their favorite childhood shows, and the chance to wind down with you while watching a classic can coax them out of bed.

For more on navigating the complexities of parenting, check out this insightful post on how to wake a sleeping teenager. Additionally, if you’re considering starting a family, you can find reputable at home insemination kits to help you along the way. For more resources related to pregnancy, visit the NICHD website for valuable information.

In summary, waking a sleeping teenager doesn’t have to feel like a battle. With a little creativity and patience, you can gently encourage them to rise and shine without declaring war within your home.