We started bedtime routines with our daughters when they were infants. Thanks to my reading the book Babywise when I was expecting, I had a pretty good idea of how I wanted our evenings to look. Obviously that has changed somewhat as our girls have grown, but I have kept things in the same general order. So, with girls that are ages eight and six, who get up in the mornings at 6:25 A.M. to get ready for school, here is what our nights look like leading up to bedtime.
7:10 – 7:20 P.M. Pick up toys and straighten rooms.
7:20 – 7:30 P.M. Eat a small snack.
7:30 – 7:55 P.M. Take a bath or shower, put pajamas on, brush teeth.
7:55 – 8:00 P.M. Lay out clothes for the next day.
8:00 – 8:30 P.M. Read to each daughter; one chapter or section from a longer book we’re reading together, as well as one page or section from a devotional or Bible story book. Pray with each daughter.
8:30 P.M. Lights out (and fan on!)
Of course not every night runs like clock work, but this is the general plan from which we work. I have found that, for me, having a schedule to follow allows me to get the kids in bed without as much hassle as it might be. By 8:30 P.M., I am about out of steam for the day and am ready for some peace and quiet!
Having a nightly routine for the girls and I to follow works for me! See what works for others at Works for Me Wednesday hosted by We Are That Family.
Hats off to you.
Mike
http://somethingaboutparenting.typepad.com
Twitter: AboutParenting
I love that routine, it sounds so organized and calm:)
Sound so relaxing. Great routine.
I am so good about having a nice routine for the kiddo but not for me.