Feeling like a less-than-stellar parent? Just dive into any article or study about sleep routines for children, and you’re bound to feel like you’re missing the mark. Recently, a popular piece made the rounds, emphasizing the critical nature of early bedtimes. The author proudly declared, “My children are tucked in by 7:30 p.m. every night, and it’s made them happier and possibly even smarter.”
At first glance, I felt a wave of inadequacy wash over me. My kids are habitual night owls, often settling down around 9 or 9:30 after an extensive winding-down process that kicks off around 8. But then I paused. My children are thriving—smart, healthy, and generally well-behaved. Sure, they have their moments of meltdowns, but who doesn’t? They aren’t perpetually exhausted; they just have their own rhythm.
Perhaps the key lies in recognizing that not all kids fit the mold of “early to bed, early to rise.” Some kids, like mine, simply prefer a later bedtime. Despite claims suggesting that more restorative sleep happens earlier, maybe we just have a different approach to what works for our family.
I’ve made efforts to shift our bedtime earlier, initiating routines as early as 7 p.m. But inevitably, as soon as the lights dim, a barrage of questions ensues: “Mom, how far is the moon?” or “Mom, why do we have to go to school?” These moments of curiosity are precious, and I’m not inclined to rush through them just to adhere to a strict bedtime.
Moreover, my older son has a busy day at school, returning home around 3 p.m., and his evenings are filled with snack time, TV, and family bonding before we even think about dinner and homework. By the time we get to bed, it’s already late, and I believe time spent with Dad before bed is non-negotiable. My husband plays a vital role in our nightly routine, and without him, our children struggle to drift off to sleep.
Is this approach considered a bad habit? Perhaps in the eyes of some experts, but it works for us. We even lay down with our kids until they fall asleep, which might violate conventional sleep rules, but it fosters comfort for them.
The bottom line? Every family needs to discover what truly works for them. If early bedtimes suit your household, fantastic! If you share the experience of late-night owls like mine, know that you’re not alone. Research can be insightful, but it often serves as a guide rather than a rulebook.
In the end, it’s crucial to prioritize what brings peace and joy to your family. Embrace your unique parenting style—it’s all part of the journey. If you’re interested in more insights on family life, check out our post on parenting strategies. For those considering at-home insemination options, Make a Mom offers reliable kits to assist you on that path. Additionally, for a deeper understanding of genetics and home insemination techniques, this resource is incredibly informative.
Summary:
This article reflects on the challenges and realities of parenting when it comes to bedtime routines. It emphasizes that not all children thrive on early bedtimes, advocating for the importance of finding what works best for your family, regardless of conventional standards.
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