In the realm of parenting, there seems to be an abundance of differing opinions and methods, especially when it comes to crucial topics like dietary choices, discipline techniques, and educational paths. The debate surrounding children’s bedtimes is no exception.
From my perspective, I’ve observed two distinct types of parents: those who enforce an early bedtime and strictly adhere to it, and those who allow their children to drift off to sleep whenever they please. I comfortably place myself in the former category—I am indeed very particular about my kids’ sleep schedules.
For example, during last year’s Fourth of July celebrations, a friend invited my family to enjoy the fireworks. However, I quickly realized that the festivities wouldn’t likely start until 9:30 p.m. at the earliest. By that time, my children were already two hours into their slumber! Our household operates on a bedtime of 7:30 p.m., which, thanks to Daylight Savings Time, often has my kids tucked in well before the sun sets.
From the early days of my daughters’ lives, I prioritized establishing a consistent schedule that included an early bedtime. Our family embraces the “early to bed, early to rise” philosophy. Regardless of when they finally settle down for the night, I can always count on being awakened at the crack of dawn by my two-year-old cheerfully singing songs and thumping her feet against the wall. Adorable? Yes. But also quite early! Since they are too young to turn on the TV themselves, I find myself rising earlier than I would prefer. With young children, late nights simply aren’t feasible.
Toddlers and infants lack the understanding of bedtime. They have no awareness of other kids playing outside or the evening shows yet to air. While some parents might enjoy keeping their little ones up late for special occasions, I believe that a well-rested child is a happy child. When my daughters have had enough sleep, they are content, and in turn, that brings me joy. In our home, sleep equals happiness, which is why I prioritize it over a bustling social life.
I often marvel at parents whose children stay up significantly later. Recently, I expressed my astonishment to a friend about her four-year-old staying up to watch the New Year’s ball drop. “I love letting them stay up for special reasons,” she said enthusiastically. As her close friend, I can playfully remind her of our differing parenting philosophies.
However, I do recognize that every family operates differently. I sometimes forget that there are children who remain awake until 9 p.m. or even later. While this routine may suit some families, it certainly doesn’t align with ours. I’m also aware that other parents might find my children’s 7:30 bedtime surprising, and that’s perfectly fine.
Perhaps my friend’s kids sleep in later in the morning and can manage with slightly less sleep. That would never be the case for my daughters. I genuinely appreciate the tranquility that comes between their bedtime and mine, allowing my husband and me a moment to reconnect without interruption.
Will my children maintain this early bedtime indefinitely? Certainly not. There will be rare occasions when special events warrant a later night. Nevertheless, for the foreseeable future, I foresee early nights for our family, but I also anticipate that someday my kids will experience life past 7:30 p.m. They may even witness fireworks!
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Summary
The article discusses the author’s strict approach to her children’s bedtime, emphasizing the importance of sleep for their happiness and well-being. She reflects on the differences between parenting styles, appreciating the quiet time she shares with her husband after the kids are asleep, while acknowledging that every family has their own routines.