After a certain it's time for a child to move to her very own bedroom. Here are some ideas to help you through the transition:
The journey from the crib to a separate bedroom can be quite an ordeal for parents. Whining, excuses, scared expressions…your child might use everything to delay the process. But after a certain age a parent knows that its time for the child to move to her very own bedroom. Here are some ideas to help you through the transition:
Prepare ahead
For a child her parents' bedroom signifies safety and warmth. A sudden transition might make her dread her own room. Certain parents shift the child into her own room when she is a baby. If you would rather wait, the first step towards weaning her away from your bedroom should be telling her what lies ahead. For example, if she insists for a doll while shopping with you, tell her "it will look good on the study table of your new room".
If you want your child to like her new bedroom, you have to sell the idea to her. Make shifting a brighter prospect and something to look forward to.
Bedtime routine
It's funny to see how children can sometimes be most active when you are drowsy with sleep. These tips will help you to make the new bedroom environment conducive to sleep:
- Don't let him watch television or play computer games before sending him off to sleep.
- Control napping.
- Don't ask him to hit the bed when the entire family is sitting together. He would not like to miss family chats.
A happy mind means a peaceful sleep. Avoid scolding him when it's his bedtime.
- Create a bedtime routine that starts half an hour before he slips under the sheets. Ask him to change his clothes, brush his teeth, put his favorite teddy near him and read him a story.
- Switch on a soft light. You can put wall lamps that come in shape of cartoon characters, flowers, etc.
- Leave his door ajar.
Pajama parties
You can encourage your child to invite his friend for overnight stays. Start his pocket money when he shifts to his new room. Do all things to make the shifting a positive change in his life.
But mom, there are monsters under my bed!
Your child might be scared of the dark or he may come up with excuses to sleep with you. Be firm but flexible. Leave a sleeping bag near your bed for those 'monster' days but give him only two such days in a week.
Don't ignore sleep problems like persistent nightmares or sleepwalking. He might need a lot of emotional reassurance or counseling to help him get over them.
Be careful
See to it that your little one's room is what it is supposed to be - a child's room. It should be safe and secure.
- Bunk beds should be for older children and should have railings. The ceilings should be high in case of bunk beds.
- Check for loose screws and nails in furniture and fittings and sharp edges on broken toys.
- Avoid glass fittings as much as possible.
- Door should have stoppers.
A separate bedroom should not put an end to goodnight kisses. A hug, a pat, a kiss - tuck your baby with lots of TLC (tender love care) that shows.
