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ParentingAll Ages348 Comments
On the other hand, if bedtime is calm, relaxing and full of family connections, it becomes a time that everyone enjoys.
A peaceful bedtime encourages and sets the stage for a good night’s sleep.
We’ve teamed up with Random House Children’s Books to help you reclaim bedtime!
Hint: Below is the book that does the trick to do just that!
5 Simple Steps to Reclaim Bedtime
Keep a strict routine.
Routines are important for kids for a lot of reasons. Having a routine at bedtime allows kids to mentally and physically know what to expect. As they go through the nightly steps to prepare for bed, their bodies will naturally start to feel sleepier.
Often the routine includes bath, brush teeth, book, and bed. (Keep reading for that book that does the trick to reclaim bedtime.)
The added bonus of routines is that when you have a strong one in place, everyone can handle a break in it pretty easily. Just make sure to return to the routine quickly after a holiday or sickness that might interrupt your schedule.
Make it an early night.
Have you heard the term “second wind”? It means a burst of energy after feeling sleepy. As adults, we are often looking for a second wind to carry us through nighttime tasks that must be done.
Kids can get this second wind too. If your little one is having trouble going to sleep, try getting them into bed earlier. You want them restful and calm and in bed when they start to feel sleepy. If they do get that second burst of energy, settling in will be much more difficult.
Stay positive.
Just like anything with parenting, staying positive is helpful. Of course, this might be the hardest time of the day to stay positive. You are tired and your patience is thin. It’s important to set yourself up for success ahead of time.
Keep your schedule clear for bedtime. This way you have the time to go through the bedtime routine without feeling rushed. Put away your phone so you can be fully present. And make sure to be on the same page with Dad so you’re working as a team.
Much related to this, see our rules for family dinners.
Include rest time.
Bedtime was a headache at our house until we started including a rest time. We consider rest time to be the time between getting ready for bed and actually going to bed.
After you have done all the getting ready for bed stuff, give the kids a chance to wind down by allowing for some quiet playtime. Suggest puzzles, coloring, reading books, or quiet building. Getting the kids to go to bed becomes surprisingly easy after they have had a chance to relax.
(Keep reading for that book…)
Take the time to connect.
That quiet time just before bed is the perfect time to connect with your kids. Ask questions about their school day, sing a favorite song together or snuggle up for a good read.
New York Times bestseller, The Rabbit Who Wants to Fall Asleep has become a favorite for parents all over the world who have embraced this book as their nightly routine.
Reclaim Bedtime!
If bedtime is a time of tension and arguments, then reclaim bedtime with the book that does the trick: The Rabbit Who Wants to Fall Asleep.
Visit RabbitGoToSleep.com to check out more about the book!
Is bedtime a time of tension or calm and relaxing?
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Trisha Burgess says
My best tip is to stick to routine! Kids desire and need it! It helps with your sanity too!
kristy says
A nice warm bath and snuggling while telling a bedtime story helps my girls nod off
Kelli Taylor says
I’d say we have a good routine of calming activities.
Sarah L says
https://twitter.com/slehan/status/677290821960400896
Sarah L says
No kids. I make sure to have calm before I go to bed (no TV or other stuff)
Thanks for the contest.
WHITNEY says
I sent out a tweet: https://twitter.com/electricstar/status/677288294669881344
WHITNEY says
Bedtime is usually calm and relaxing with soft tranquil music in our house.
Gina R says
No that my kids are older it’s more tension. THey aren’t as easy to get to bed as they use to be.
Angela P. says
Here is my tweet- https://twitter.com/angelatrenna/status/677254626689867778
claire says
it kdepends. it can be either
Angela P. says
It really depends on if my kids are overtired or not. When we stick to our usual routine, no eating sugar too late, reading a bedtime story, brushing our teeth, sticking to our usual bed time.. we have a fairly calm and peaceful bedtime.
sandra says
dim lighting and music
Tabathia B says
tweet https://twitter.com/ChelleB36/status/677186739505639426
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
Tabathia B says
Most of the time it’s tension filled, because she refuses to go to bed with an argument or wanting to do something last minute
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
Karine Traverse says
Tweeted https://mobile.twitter.com/SAHMofDQ/status/677182507989757956
Karine Traverse says
Mostly tension, but we can usually calm down by reading together or watching something
angie says
I tweeted here: https://twitter.com/MsTofuFairy/status/677173612290424832
angie says
Since we don’t have kids, it is both calm and relaxing, as long as the cats leave the room without too much sass. hahahaha!!!!
Meghan B says
This book would be great for my daughter
Kathryn C says
#SweepstakesEntry- comment
bedtime for me is calm & relaxing! I am fortunate to have a newer mattress which is really comfy plus my kitties love sleeping on the bed and hearing them purring is my white noise machine! lol
KC
Kathryn C says
#SweepstakesEntry tweet:
https://twitter.com/thrincor/status/677156835351228417
Kathryn C
Kathryn C says
please disregard previous tweet- here is corrected link:
#SweepstakesEntry tweet:
https://twitter.com/thrincor/status/677280456052776960
Kathryn C
Amy Honious says
My 4 children are all grown now, but what helped us most was just having a set routine. A routine of activities AND times. With so many so close together (now ages 21-26), we had to keep to our routine or the kids might have never gone to sleep! Thanks so much for the great giveaway. Happy Holidays!
Jerry Marquardt says
I publicly Tweeted this giveaway: https://twitter.com/versatileer/status/677063773018972160
Jerry Marquardt says
Bedtime is a time for calm and relaxing, to me. It always helps.
Kim Reid says
Tweet – https://twitter.com/kimbreid/status/677001355081437184
Kim Reid says
We like to read just before bedtime to help fall asleep, thanks!
Thomas Murphy says
tweeted
https://twitter.com/thomasmurphy40/status/676990626114727937
Thomas Murphy says
I read my son a story to get him to sleep.
Tamara says
Tweeted! https://twitter.com/pixel_berry_pie/status/676987929705730048
Tamara says
We always had a “rest time” too before bed! We didn’t call it that, but the kids knew it was time to quiet down. Then they were more ready to fall asleep when bedtime actually arrived.
westiemks5 at yahoo dot com
Denise L says
tweeted – https://twitter.com/dmarie824/status/676987483909959684
Denise L says
Routine is the key. Another helpful item is to try to discuss the day’s worries and tough times well before bedtime. My kids always seem to want to solve all their problems when they climb into bed, so I try to coax out the problems at dinner or just after.
Liza Vladyka says
email subscriber
Liza Vladyka says
i agree with all your points why dont our kids???
laurie murley says
my tip is have bath time close to bedtime, the bath usually relaxes them and then bed time with a book always seems to do the trick
Ellie Wright says
tweeted
https://twitter.com/eswright18/status/676962611620134913
Ellie Wright says
Bedtime is usually pretty tense with my 7 year old, but my 10 year old is a breeze to get in bed for the night.
Seyma Shabbir says
https://twitter.com/SeymaShabbir/status/676957929950601217
Seyma Shabbir says
Bedtime is a time for tension! The kids fight sleeping so much!
Bonnie Y says
My kids get wound up at night. Bed time is rough!
sarah k says
I tweeted: https://mobile.twitter.com/sarabird26/status/676922750926249985
sarah k says
I think that taking a shower/bath with calming scents helps and reading is great too.
Amanda Sakovitz says
tweet
https://twitter.com/aes529/status/676868858007851008
Amanda Sakovitz says
i find singing helps
Bessamy says
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/bessamy/status/676855233151152128
Bessamy says
I try to make bedtime a relaxing time, but lately it seems to be more tedious. All the things we have to do tomorrow build up. So we are practicing getting to bed earlier and being more prepared for the morning so it can be a calmer time.
Kerry says
tweeted: https://twitter.com/KerryBishop/status/676846663076618240
Michelle says
Picture books about sleep are a must in our house, especially with a non-verbal toddler. Seeing the animals sleep and resting helps to paint a picture that maybe he should settle down, too. Not that it always works, mind you, but stories with rhymes also tend to have a drowsy effect.
Kerry says
With a 2 month old, it’s been a time of tension so far – hoping that will change!
Melissa says
We have story time before bed, no tv!
Kristen says
We spend time reading a story together. That calms us all down.
Shannon says
Most nights it’s calm…we try to start our routine an hour before bedtime so we can get showers and take time to read.
debbie says
https://twitter.com/suburbsanity/status/676596430417580032
debbie says
Our kids are grown now but bedtime was one thing we did right. We had a very set routine which included time to read, brush teeth, get dressed, etc. No staying up late, etc. It was very calming and we all loved it.
Candace M says
All electronics in the house are turned off at least 1 hour before bedtime.
Karrie says
I try to keep a bed time routine so going down is easy
katie says
bedtime for my nephew is very calm – his parents start a lavender infused humidifier during reading and he loves it!
richelle bowers says
my kids are older so bedtime is easy
whitney lindeman says
I tweeted :)
https://twitter.com/WhitSweeps/status/676251053025726464
whitney lindeman says
No kiddos at our house, so if I won I’d love to share with a friend. Bedtime is still a little stressful in our house, though, because both my spouse and I have trouble sleeping AND our American Eskimo dog often thinks bedtime is playtime/potty time.
Dominique says
https://twitter.com/myWAHW/status/676218887025766400
Dominique says
Bedtime is actually pretty relaxing at my house! I don’t know how I got so lucky! We have a routine and I think that helps a lot!
Shawn Gallagher says
Calm and relaxing… luckily
Shawn Gallagher says
https://twitter.com/Esham4life/status/676207862989869056
Linda C. says
Tweeted https://twitter.com/Lindiac/status/676162389331456000
Linda C. says
Now it’s calm and relaxing, a warm bath right before bed helps.
Betty C says
Tweet – https://twitter.com/willitara/status/676140812799901696
Betty C says
My children are all adults now but we always had time for reading before bedtime. With 3 boys and 2 girls we did our reading as a group. Their favorite story was a Rudyard Kipling story How the Elephant Got Its Trunk. I think some of the things they loved in that story are similar to this book. The repetition of the Great Grey Green Greasy Limpopo River seemed to relax them.
Betty C says
I should have been more careful. The name of the story is The Elephant’s Child.
Stephanie Phelps says
I tweeted
https://twitter.com/my4boysand1/status/676139346169327616
Stephanie Phelps says
Our bedtime routine is to take baths and then after our teeth are brushed and hairs combed we settle down to one book!
janna johnson says
Tension and anxiety for me!
Randi Nemeroff says
having a bedtime routine helps immensely. It’s the only thing that helps my autistic niece fall asleep.
Esther Swartz says
Thanks for the great tips here. My 4 year old son usually won’t hold still for a book before bed so we started doing a quiet activity.
Leah B says
Warm milk, low lights and a bedtime book does the trick! If not, then a back rub always helps.
Sarah says
Reading a book is the best way to get to sleep
Eric katechis says
Excited for this contest!
kjasus says
https://twitter.com/raggammuffin/status/675457297846407179
kjasus says
bedtime is very relaxing. we spend time reading and praying together before sleep.
Trisha Burgess says
Bed time is definitely a mix of emotions!
erica best says
https://twitter.com/purplelover04/status/675182951118802944
erica best says
a mix of both at times
Jolene Johnson says
On good days bedtime is calm and great time for bonding. If she’s overtired however, it becomes a tense and trying time. I try my best to keep things positive, distract her from potential meltdowns, etc. We can always use a new bedtime book! Thanks! :)
Heidi Daily says
Bedtime in our house is usually calm and relaxing, the past couple of nights though my son has been very wound up at bedtime.
Michelle Ward says
Bedtime is stressful with my kids. I will remember your tips for bedtime tonight.
Patricia wright says
My grandaughter could use this book.
Christy Caldwell says
I tweeted.
https://twitter.com/cychochris/status/674736703614140418
Christy Caldwell says
For as long as I have been a mom getting my boys to bed has been pure chaos. Neither of them like bedtime. It gets crazy!
Alisha Lecroy says
Now that my kids are 10 and 5, bedtime has become pretty relaxing. They know when it’s close to 8pm and to brush their teeth and get ready. It’s not always easy, sometimes there is resistance from my 5 year old, but it’s a process that takes time and consistency.
Shel says
A routine that includes a book and a game helps our little family keep a peaceful bedtime.
Angela Sims says
Bedtime is usually calming…holding my 1 year old in my arms as we both drift off to sleep.
Paol Trenny says
https://twitter.com/emscout9/status/674359033613017088
Paol Trenny says
A little bit of both, there were moments of tension, but most of a time its calm!
Laura Royal says
Bedtime is usually a time of tension for me.
AndreaH says
Tweeted here:
https://twitter.com/andreacouponz/status/674323282691162113
AndreaH says
There are moments of tension but for the most part it is a time of calm!
Karen says
https://twitter.com/KappaVelvit/status/674249001257058305
Karen says
Because we stuck with a routine for so many years, it’s pretty calm and relaxing now that they are older :)
Vicki says
I hope my email address was correct in the last entry!
Vicki says
My daughter loves books; this will help with bedtime!
Katie Peterson says
One thing I love to do at night is tell my daughter stories from when she was a little baby. She loves asking for them and it is neat for us to spend the time reminiscing together in a quiet activity before she falls asleep.
Tammy Woodall says
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/tlawoodall/status/674101496284323840
Tammy Woodall says
Bedtime at our house, unfortunately, is a time of tension. Our children always fight wanting to go to bed no matter how tired they are.
gina blades says
My 2-year old daughter always is negotiating for 1 more minute of playtime before bed.
Lacey says
I like getting the kids ready for bed with a warm bath with lavender essence drop and coconut soap and then a bedtime story. :-)
Ashley Smith says
Thank you so much for this post. It is really helpful. i am always with my niece doing bed time. i have not yet to read to her because she is so young, less than 2, and doesnt speak much but I am going to try to read her a book tonight!
Ashley Smith says
tweeted: https://twitter.com/ash4rel/status/673913783765594112
Kendra Krebs says
We have always kept a strict bedtime routine, but my 4 year old always ends up in our bed halfway through the night…. Luckily my 1 year old sleeps through the night usually, but I haven’t had a good night’s sleep in 4 years!!!! Hoping he grows out of it soon! We’ve tried everything!
Kelly Tackett says
Bedtime routine is very important.
Martha says
The bedtime storybook readings seem to be that perfect soothing time needed to calm everyone down for sleep.
Andrea says
I always look foward to bedtime! Its usually a peaceful time
CeeBee says
I really had to get serious about the bedtime routine. While the summer weather is always so welcome, the extra daylight hours at the beginning and end of the day are really hard for my preschoolers. So when we hit daylight savings a month ago (yeah I know, summer was over for awhile but we live in the hot SW!), I made it a priority. I realized that no matter what I did, teeth, jammies, books, finding stuffed animals, getting some water, etc., always takes an hour and ideally I’d like lights out by 8:30. And if there’s a bath involved, it has to start no later than 7. Also, my son loves Wild Kratts which unfortunately comes on at 8pm and we were having the worst time getting him to let go of that one half hour of tv that he really loved (and is all around a great and super educational show). But I got serious about it, and my hubs was totally on board with it, and lights are out every night by 8:30 and we’re all loving it. It’s so much easier to get them to stay in their room and fall asleep if it’s the same time every night. Who knew ;)
Connie Blasing says
My bedtime is definitely not relaxing! I love staying up late but my new job starts early and I need to go to bed at least 2-3 hours earlier that I would like. I’m getting used to it, though, and love my new job.
Candace D says
I got lucky with my two little ones they have been amazing with sleep schedule. They are a year apart same day. Yea crazy, I’m lucky they good with sleep, my daughter is great! As soon as my son starting walking he’s trouble of boy he’s trouble. Any other moms have kids close in age? Would love to hear .. Please share your stories good and bad :) they are 2 and 1
Susan Smith says
https://twitter.com/susan1215/status/673704735761821696
Susan Smith says
Our bedtime isn’t too bad but our son will want us to read more books so he doesn’t have to go to bed to we have to put a limit on it.
Julie says
These are good tips! Bedtime has always been a bit of a struggle for us. Mostly because we, the parents, are not ones for strict routines ourselves. It’s been a work of self-discipline for us to enforce a schedule for our two-year-old! I always notice when we’ve had a good routine going for awhile, though, how much easier it is for them to fall asleep.
Lindsay says
Bedtime is usually a time of tension because we are always getting started with the routine late. I hope to change this.
Anna says
It’s not full of tension but not always calm. We try to stay light-hearted and use some humor to help keep it moving along (like we go to each room in the house “looking” for our sons bedroom, and loves helping us find it and then we are in th bedroom!!).
Jennifer says
Bed time is so hard with the little guy lately! Willing to try anything that might work!
Erin Will says
https://twitter.com/elw484/status/673568209031720960 Thank you!
Erin Will says
I would say for the majority, calm and relaxing! Right before bed we all sit down and watch a few minutes of TV. Then I put my kids in bed and read them both one story. Since we do this every night I usually don’t get any fighting to go to bed. :)
Angela A Simmons says
Reading is extremely important for a healthy growing mind. I read through both of my pregnancies and as they grew. My children are now 18 and 14 and do very well in school. I’m expecting a little one in July and plan on doing the same with him.
Angela A Simmons says
to answer the question its pretty calm right now and hopefully it will stay that way after the baby is born. I have been doing lots of meditation and relaxation exercise so I’m pretty sure it will be peaceful during bed time
Audrey Stewart says
I bought a copy of this book for one of my grands, and it would be great to win another one to have at my house./ https://twitter.com/AudreyS23511436/status/673468478372712448
Stevie says
https://twitter.com/StevieAlbertson/status/673351873332645888
Stevie says
I wouldn’t say it’s a time of tension, but it’s not always calm & relaxing. My daughter seems to get a burst of energy right before bed & wants to do anything but.
Rebecca says
https://mobile.twitter.com/michael64263870/status/673342036087603200
Rebecca says
I think a consistent bedtime and bath before bed really helps my kids be good sleepers.
Cindy Loo says
Bedtimes are tough, especially when routines change. When my nieces have a sleepover at our place, we always sing them a special song to help them go to bed. They look forward to it so much that they ask if it’s time for PJs yet!
jennifer horn says
https://twitter.com/jen_r_horn/status/673263251392598016
jennifer horn says
Bedtimes at our house are great. We have a routine and it goes smoothly every night.
Gina M says
tweet–https://twitter.com/WildOrchid985/status/673225843506814976
Gina M says
We start with a bath, and that really calms him down.
Thanks for the chance to win!
wildorchid985 AT gmail DOT com
Audra O'Hara says
My bedtime tip is to read before bed and a good nightlight is always useful.
Megan Zuchowski says
It honestly can be both depending on what night it is and how tired everyone is.
Ann L says
Bedtime is always an event. You never know what’s going to happen.
Pamela Gurganus says
I tweeted about this promotion! https://twitter.com/PJGurganus/status/672793477927817220
Pamela Gurganus says
Bedtime is calm and relaxing! I’ve found that establishing a routine and staying consistent works best. Everyone knows what to expect and it just really helps.
Holly Thomas says
https://twitter.com/HollyThomas61/status/672733491734421505
Holly Thomas says
Make sure bedtime is the same time every night.
GC says
Here’s the link… https://twitter.com/777akiba777/status/672690868931993600
Priscilla S. says
https://twitter.com/littlebird_xo/status/672687962878939136
Priscilla S. says
Bedtime is calm and relaxing. First a bath and then a great bedtime story always does the trick.
christine burd says
Bedtime is calm and relaxing . Hugs, kisses and a good book .
Jen Haile says
https://twitter.com/XArea51/status/672632653477089280
Jen Haile says
It’s calm and relaxing for us.
Lisa says
The only bedtime tips I have are the usual ones, such as, keeping to a nightly bedtime routine. A bath, a story, and then lights out. Maybe a white noise machine if that helps a particular child.
amy pugmire says
Its a combo of both. For some reason my kids get really hyper at night time before bed so I’ve tried to switch it up by having them do some quiet activities to calm them down before bedtime.
Tina m says
https://twitter.com/HappyTina0115/status/672598445111296000
Tina m says
We have a bedtime routine now. Dinner, bath ,story time and bed time, my son goes to bed at 8 every day!
heather kaufman says
https://twitter.com/hmhkaufman/status/672591425519747073
heather kaufman says
Bedtime is stressful for 1 child, but easy for the other.
Maeghyn Koehler says
Be consistent, have a routine.
Kenneth Pereira says
Night time story
Chad Gustafson says
Tension usually, my son usually gets hyper when its bed time lol
Sean says
A good tip that seems to work for us are warm baths and then a short story.
Sean says
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/connsean71/status/672506168753942528
maria cantu says
Reading at bedtime works for us.
Alina says
Our bed time tip is to dim the lights, read in a soft voice and tip toe sans noise :) But seriously, reading to allow them to relax and make it a routine.
Alina says
Here’s my tweet – https://twitter.com/AlinaConn/status/672495611900469248
Ty says
I tweeted about the giveaway. https://twitter.com/poisonsix9/status/672484687177207809
Ty says
A warm bath and a bedtime story always works for my girls.
Julie Matek says
Our bedtime is pretty relaxing. We stick to the routine: bath or shower, brush/ potty, snuggle & read 1 book, a little t.v. then sleep;) thanks for the chance!
Molli vandehey says
my bedtime tip is to give the kids as much options as possible (which pjs sto wear, which book to read, ertc)
Jennifer Rote says
tweeted
https://twitter.com/wildnmild4u/status/672440978662432769
Jennifer Rote says
My bedtime tip is to be consistent with time and a routine.
Denise A. says
I tweeted: https://mobile.twitter.com/adamsdj6381/status/672435253487759360
Denise A. says
We used a cutoff time for liquids and had family quiet time, watching a video or reading for an hour or so before bed. Never had an issue!
Pamela Gurganus says
I tweeted about this promotion! https://twitter.com/PJGurganus/status/672433126577172480
Kristine R. says
Tweeted! https://twitter.com/McKenna_1444/status/672427115292188672
Kristine R. says
Oh my GOSH bedtime used to be a nightmare with my daughter!! We started doing a bath before, then a little bit of “quiet time” where she can read and that seemed to solve the problem.
Julie Wood says
Tweet-https://twitter.com/JewelWood/status/672401026603876353
Julie Wood says
I make sure to have my kids get plenty of exercise and we do not take a lot of naps and bedtime has turned out to be great now, and we do not drink water or any other liquid at night so my kids do not keep saying they have to go to the bathroom.
suzanne says
Twitted https://twitter.com/suzedoo1/status/672396979553570816
suzanne says
I found reading to my son was always a helpful bedtime routine. It was also the best time to have talks with him as he was growing up. Now I wish I would have taken the time for more of those talks.
Vladimir says
Have no kids yet
Lisa Walker says
I tweeted: https://twitter.com/Liese2/status/672252055151509504
Lisa Walker says
Bedtime is a time of stress in our home. The kids have trouble falling asleep and want to stay up late.
Julie Lundstrom says
I tweet today https://twitter.com/JulieIsaiahL/status/672187992019042304
Julie Lundstrom says
Bedtime is a time for tension and stress. My son has autism and doesn’t like to sleep. He is afraid that he will miss something or he has something he wants to do on his mind and they don’t stop thinking about it until they get to do it. We get him ready for bed and then read books. That is helping somewhat and putting on a fan for sound, even that he doesn’t like sound the fan is one sound he likes, seems to help him at night.
Tara says
Tweet: https://twitter.com/TSayers/status/672132746182066178
Tara says
Bedtime is pretty tense in our house for our 2-year-old right now… he just got a new baby brother, so the bedtime routine kind of fell apart temporarily! He loves books, though, so maybe this book will help get us all back on track… fingers crossed!
Ashley M says
Tweet: https://twitter.com/LittleMomMaid/status/671923827144712192
Ashley M says
It really depends on the night!!
Stephanie says
Calm and relaxing bedtimes here! Lots and lots of outside play during the day makes bedtime easier for us.
Pam H. says
I tweeted: https://mobile.twitter.com/H3artonF1r3/status/671816748790898688
Pam H. says
Bedtime is relatively calm and relaxing.
Annmarie W. says
I tweeted! https://twitter.com/amweeks/status/671729428754468865
Annmarie W. says
My children are older now, but when they were younger bedtime was always calm! They were good sleepers and fell asleep quickly after bathtime & bedtime stories! I always feel bad when friends & family have ‘problem sleepers’.
Margot C says
I posted a tweet too: https://twitter.com/AnnaZed/status/671571142440710144
Margot C says
All I have to say is read, read, read to your kids; this book or any book. It’s the most wonderful thing. It doesn’t involve lighted screens and children never ever forget it.
Elaine Fox says
Bedtime has always been a little stressful around my house.
CR Williams says
tweeted https://twitter.com/mommysweetiepie/status/671482186382581760
CR Williams says
Definitely calm and relaxing for us.
Kathleen M Smith says
https://twitter.com/lightlovebeing/status/671439006131974144
Kathleen M Smith says
My daughter’s bedtime was almost always calm and relaxing
Jessica Miller says
tweeted https://twitter.com/jessicasweepss/status/671365408084074496
Jessica Miller says
I would say its more calm and relaxing
BusyWorkingMama says
My daughter loves to read before bed. She also likes to have a “sound machine” that makes some white noise in the room.
Jodie says
Create a bed time routine and stick with it. Also adding a few drops of lavender oil to your child’s bath can works wonders to sooth and calm your little one.
Donna Marchlewski says
I own this in AUDIO, it is excellent!
Barbara M says
Tweeted https://twitter.com/JalapenoMama/status/671065311077138432
Barbara M says
The kids go to bed at nine.
And our quiet time starts at eight.
This means no electronics phone calls.
This has always worked well for us.
thank you
Ada Miller says
Tweeted https://twitter.com/adamiller28/status/671011005351206912
Ada Miller says
Bedtime use to be a relaxing time but recently my 8yr old is so afraid to sleep by himself even with his 9yo brother in the room, so it’s been pretty hectic. I’ve tried everything to get it back to being easy for him and me but have so far not been able to find a solution.
Echota Keller says
Bedtime is calm and relaxing, and my favorite part of the day, because it’s just me, my son and our cat. We read and talk and do a guided meditation as we fall asleep.
Rebecca Graham says
Reading helps make bedtime routine easier.
Alina Hahn says
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/alinarenee/status/670807395933769728
Alina Hahn says
We try to stay consistent at bedtime – bath, brush teeth, book and quiet. No crazy activities before bed and lights as low as we can get them.
Birdiebee says
Bedtime has always been calming in our house.
Birdiebee says
Tweeted-https://twitter.com/birdiebee52/status/670739595701678080?lang=en
Ronda says
Bedtime in my house is calm and relaxing.
Amy Tong says
tweeted:
https://twitter.com/uTry_it/status/670452767505428480
amy [at] utry [dot] it
Amy Tong says
I am glad to say bed time is usually calm and relaxing. I try to read to the kids and have soft music on. that really help.
amy [at] utry [dot] it
christal boggs says
my three year old gets really sleepy when he is really cool….may sound crazy but if he wont go to sleep I give him a freezey pop…will usually snuggle up and go right to sleep….don’t happen much but if it’s one of those nights the cold item works 99 percent of the time.
Adrien Beatty says
I tweeted on twitter as well=) https://twitter.com/mzmyrtlezplace/status/670133267069345792
Adrien Beatty says
My number one tip is sticking to the same routine. Children actually love consistency. A warm bath during the evening with a reading of a book or lullibies make bed time a relaxing time.
D Schmidt says
tweeted https://twitter.com/mummytotwoboys1/status/670020138821906432
D Schmidt says
My best tip is to have a set routine and stick to it.
Soo says
https://twitter.com/jltsmommy/status/669963525666816000
Soo says
My 4-year-old and 22-month-old share a room, and we’ve spent the past few months trying to coordinate bedtime routines. We’re starting to figure it out, I think!
Tami Otsuka says
Usually calm & relaxing, unless my son resists brushing his teeth and I have to scold him! A routine really helps make bedtime less troublesome.
Kristin Gideon says
https://twitter.com/smurfy29/status/669712408433192964
Kristin Gideon says
We have had a predictable bedtime routine for nearly 6 years now, so for the most part, bedtime is pretty calm and relaxing here. I’ve been intrigued by this book for a little while now though!
Autumn W says
My son just turned two is and is still up every two hours all night long. I’m really at my wit’s end. Thanks for a great post and giveaway!
https://twitter.com/fP2Pb/status/669693772721205248?s=03
heather says
For a happy bedtime make it fun with a nice bath and then bedtime story.
meagan says
Bedtime is always hard now. My daughter used to sleep in her crib now she’s afraid of her room. I’ve tried everything… Music, night lights, singing, cry it out, sitting next to the crib, laying on the floor. None of it works. So she sleeps with me since i have to work
renee says
I know many parents have bath time right before bed, but that only makes my daughter more wired, so we do bath time earlier in the evening. That leaves plenty of time to relax, brush teeth, and read stories. Also, my daughter has a night-light owl buddy that she likes to turn on as she goes to sleep. It turns itself off automatically and is part of that always-important routine that signals sleep time for her.
barnolds barnes says
https://twitter.com/barnold8/status/669643059718557696
barnolds barnes says
Bedtime is relaxing for the kids but sometimes I’m really tired and just want to get it done quickly. I wish I could enjoy it more on those days.
Vicki says
my daughter loves books! this is great!
Jeffrey says
I shared on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FireRunner2379/status/669626087857627137.
Jeffrey says
My best tip is to have a routine and try to follow it to the T every single night. We always started at the same time with a snack, followed by a warm bath, story and a few minutes in the rocking chair before laying down. It worked better for our second child than our first.
Dana says
It’s pretty calm for us, thankfully!
Jessica C. says
When my husband is home, it is calm and relaxing; if I have to put both kids to bed by myself it can get a bit hectic!
Michelle J. says
I tweeted: https://twitter.com/short624/status/669574253834977280
Michelle J. says
It’s been calm ever since my hubby started reading to the kids.
Hayley S says
We try to make it calm and relaxing, but it does not always end up that way!
debbie says
Be consistant. Stay calm and gentle; don’t make it seem like a big deal..
Also, have a “matter of fact” attitude. Don’t just announce its bedtime routine time. Routine means it should fit into the day naturally. It’s a time to relax naturally.
Lisa Van Meter says
We have always had a bedtime routine, including bath, snack and milk, story time, brushing teeth, and snuggle time, but when my husband’s job hours changed and he started to getting home at 7:45pm (when many little ones are already in bed), we made adjustments on the bedtime, to ensure that our son could say goodnight to Dad and have time his special time with dad. Him and I do bath, snack, and reading together, before my husband gets home. Then, when Dad gets home, they have time to talk about the day and be goofy. Then we do potty and brush teeth. After this, we all snuggle and calm down with quiet talk, or one more book. It does not stick to an early bedtime, but my son has never been an early riser and so he sleeps in and gets his full amount of needed hours of sleep. It allows my son the routine he knows, but also allows him to keep that close connection with his Dad. (Some days my husband leaves before my son wakes and so, if there was not that night time togetherness, our son would go all day and night without seeing his dad, which I do not think is acceptable or fair to him.) It works for us, and we never have issues with our son going to sleep. He knows that though he gets that goofy time with Dad, when snuggles start, it is time to relax and calm down.
Stacy Niemann says
We started a bedtime routine from the time our son was a baby and didn’t even know what was happening. Starting that early helped us to maintain it while making adjustments for teeth brushing, potty, etc. as he grew. We eat dinner, clean up toys, then let him choose whether it’s potty or tooth brushing first (you know, for that small sense of control that toddlers yearn for), then jammies, two books, and head for bed. As we tuck him in we point out that he’s got all his snuggle buddies and his night lights are on, and it’s usually pretty easy! Of course there are a few days out of the week that he wants to get back up but for the most part he’s good about going down.
Jennifer Sheridan says
Depending on who my son wants to
saniel says
We eat dinner, clean up room, pj, books, prayers, bathroom and bed. Sometimes it’s easy but most nights it’s not. Love it all. Thanks
jennifer says
What seems to work best for us is getting ready for bed together. There is less argument and forgetfulness. (like forgetting to use the bathroom)
Also, a water bottle/glass of water next to bed so there is no excuse of getting up for a drink.
Desiree' Muller says
Mostly it’s calm and relaxing. The moments just before teeth brushing can be a bit stressful, but not horrible. Once we get them to bed it’s so sweet to just be near them while we settle into bed, read a book, and say our prayers. I lay on the floor next to my son’s toddler bed and he crawls on my back, and sometimes falls asleep there!! I’ll miss those times when they are over.
beth c says
we could use some help with the bedtime routine around here! i definitely wouldn’t call it calm & relaxing, & don’t really have any pointers to share except both the kiddo & i love snuggles & storytime before bed, so i guess that’s one thing we’re doing right! :) thanks for the great giveaway!
V Adams says
The biggest tip we have is to keep the bedroom a space mainly for sleeping. Try and take children to other rooms to play so the bedroom remains a calm space, and they know what to expect when they go into the bedroom.
Lindsey C says
Typically bedtime is relaxing. We following the same routine so the kids know what to expect.
Candace D says
Bedtime is best time .. Brush teeth , bedtime story and lights out
Cheryl says
I take my kids swimming right after dinner to wear out those last bits of energy before bed then they take a shower together, put on pyjamas and relax with a short cartoon before books and lights out!
Heather says
Bedtime is calm & relaxing. We have a routine that we stick to. Dinner at 5pm, then a bit of play & tidying up of toys, then my hubby starts the girls’ bath at 6pm, out by 6:30. Then we get them all ready for bed, read 2 stories, lights out and a couple of lullabies & they are off to sleep by 7-7:15pm.
Sarah Robinson says
It always feels like a whirlwind, but we go to bed early and I think that had made all the difference. Once down they rarely get up.
Sarah says
We have always had a really strict bedtime routine, and it has helped my son a lot! After sleep training at 7-8 months, (he is 2 now) we have such a happy, easy boy at bedtime! Guests at our house are always amazed that he goes down without a fight or fuss, although they are also shocked that he is in his bed by 7:00pm. In our experience tired kids get cranky fast, so we make sure he is down with plenty of time to sleep! (Most nights he sleeps from 7:15-7:00am)
Mercedes says
Bedtime is calm as long as we stick to the routine and we supervise the boys. If we start to do something else it can get crazy. Once they are in bed then we start reading the books. It’s a great way to end the day.
Mercedes says
Bedtime is calm as long as we stick to the routine and we supervise the boys. If we start to do something else it can get crazy. Once they are in bed then we start reading the books. It’s a great way to end the day.
Ally says
There is usually some tension at bedtime here :/
Elena says
https://twitter.com/ElenaIstomina/status/669289554717732864
Elena says
Bedtime is calm and relaxing in our house
Betsy Finn says
Some nights bedtime is stressful, but it is usually relaxing. We always read books to the kids before bed. My one year old gets to pick 1 and my four year old chooses 3, which we read all together. They sometimes fall asleep during story time!
Lindsay Mower says
The greatest tip I can give is to try and keep things low stress. It seems like when bedtime comes along, the kids try to unleash all the remaining energy they possibly can. It can be stressful for parents when you are really needing them to fall asleep so you can accomplish the 100 things you weren’t able to get done that day! Try to stay positive, talk softly when you can, and not let the stress of the day get to you! I love laying by my girls and singing softly to help settle them down. Their cuddles are the best!
Ashley says
My biggest bedtime tip is consistency! Our routine has evolved as my daughter has grown but we’ve always read a book before sleep, even when she was an infant. Right now our routine is diaper change, she picks out one book and we read it together, turn on her lullaby CD and sing 3 songs while cuddling, in her crib while I sing one more song, then I give her a kiss and hug and leave the room. She loves the consistency of it, she will even say my usual “I love you, sweet dreams, night night” speech to me before I say it sometimes! We do the same thing for naps and bedtime.
Ashley C says
We’ve kind of figured out how to make bedtime relaxing but we still have our stressful nights
demureprincess7(at)gmail(dot)com
Stesha says
Bedtime with our 3 year old is very easy as we have developed a good routine with him. We potty, wash hands and face, brush teeth, pouch out pajamas, pick out books, get flash light, talk about our day, read books, say prayers, roll over and choose eyes. It was a battle before we started laying with him until he is asleep. He would cry and cry just not wanting to be alone. Now it is very smooth. My 1 year old fights sleep hard. She nurses until almost asleep and will pop up and want to play. …this goes on for hours sometimes. We will get her routine better the older she gets.
Stephanie says
Bedtime is horrible around here. We have a routine, but they still get upset every night when it’s time to go to sleep. It takes forever. We would love to have this book to help us. Thanks for the chance!
Kelsey says
Even with a baby I’ve learned the benefits of having a routine. Sitting down to read a book, singing, and saying a prayer always means he is ready to sleep as son as I put him down.
Jamie says
My 4 yr old uses a picture checklist that she refers to on her own and gets ready mostly on her own. This list evolves over time and we just add or subtract to it. We have a few copies printed out on plain paper and she colors in all the steps herself, and we have extra copies ready to go if it gets lost or damaged (since she has it hanging on her wall and gets it herself nightly) (currently the picture list contains bedtime snack, bath, pj’s, brush teeth, get glass of water, stories and song, and off to bed). She also sings the Daniel Tiger bedtime song while she colors her sheets and she also helps me pick the images that we will use (either on-line or magazine cut outs).
Lately our stories at night are chapter book series that she helps me pick out. Her attention span has really grown and these long involved and interesting stories keep her listening and get her tired. She is not one to fall asleep during the story (but the only book she ever does fall asleep to is the Rabbit one, lol) but she will stop me from reading and tell me its time to sleep.
She has had some sort of self soothing bedtime routine since she was 7 months old due to my Chronic Intractable Pain and inability to hold her without immense pain. Bedtime routines are surely best if kids are involved in the process of creating them and when routines are a life long evolution full of good sleep hygiene. MOST IMPORTANTLY, to have a smooth bedtime, we make sure to give her lots of one-on-one attention and at least 20 minutes of “mind body and soul time” with mom and dad daily.
That Rabbit book is great, she will request it because she knows it helps her sleep. She even chose it when she had 3 of her cousins sleep over, all under 4 and all asleep halfway through!
Oh, and we role play using the bedtime routine list each time it changes so that we all know our roles.
Aaren says
Our key is to allow enough time so that my daughter has some quiet alone play time in her room after teeth/books/jammies and before “lights out”. The time really lets her wind down and get ready for sleeping.
Trisha says
We have a good bedtime routine, so it usually is relaxing.
Nina says
Depends on the day. We tend to not keep track of time very well at night. Not sure why. We just want to squeeze everything in!
Elizabeth says
We always always have bedtime at the same time, and it’s not too late. Overtired kids = cranky kids. That is my best tip.
Georgina Bomer says
https://twitter.com/Craftulate/status/669253627698114560
Zara G says
Normally, our bedtime is calm and relaxing, but tense nights exist once in a while!
Kari says
Betime is my favorite time of day. I usually lay with my son and we talk about the day and share fun memories or just cuddle.
Jamie says
Routine is so helpful at our home. Quiet time, get ready for bed, reading time, prayer and blessing time and then time to fall asleep.
Shannon says
Bedtime with my daughter is relaxing. We get to snuggle and read, and she is always ready to climb into her bed after storytime.
Melanie says
Sometimes both! We have a pretty predictable routine so normally it’s not too bad. We read books every night before bed to calm down and relax. Some nights are better than others, as I’m sure most would agree with!
Allison says
Bedtime used to be my favorite part of the day. Lately it is becoming a nightmare…We are slowly getting back on track. I hope this phase is over soon!
Lori says
If we get started early enough to take the time to read and visit a bit before lights out, then bedtime is calm & relaxing. But if its been a busy evening & we’re running behind, then its always full of tension!
Mary Anne says
It really depends on the day! Days with naps make bedtime a nightmare, busy days with no naps are a breeze!
nicole says
Sticking to our general nightly routine of bath, try to encourage quiet play, books, cuddles/singing. Working for us so far.
Jenna says
Brush teeth, last drink, reading books, prayers, hugs, and kisses!
Vanessa L says
We’ve had great success with a bath before bedtime followed by reading and cuddling.
katie says
relaxing since I still nurse my 3yo. but stressful if I want to wean her which we do!
Heather LaRue says
Always stick to a routine. Same go to bed time time and wake up time. Lots of snuggles!
Irina says
Bedtime with my kids is usually calm and relaxing. It’s the time after we put them to bed and they keep coming out for “one more thing”, that sometimes gets on my nerves.
Rachel Turley says
My son gets to watch 5 minutes of whatever show he wants, then we brush teeth, read two or three books, say our night prayers, lay him down and sing Jesus wants me for a Sunbeam (his favorite song right now) at least three times then say love you and blow kisses.
Marlene Zerbe says
We recently started trying yoga poses and breathing or relating yoga poses to animals within a story. I have high hopes!
Becca says
Bedtime has been a little off the last two weeks due to my leaving their dad, but for the most part they’ve thought it was pretty cool to sleep at grandma’s. I have kept pretty much everything the same as when we were at home so usually it only takes 15 minutes to get them down.
Melanie says
She loves her lavender bubble bath a light snack and a story, works every time for a calm and relaxing bedtime.
Nancy says
We love our bedtime routines for a calm and relaxing bedtime.
Heidi says
Bedtime is fairly routine and calm for us generally.
Katy says
As long as we’re not too tired, it is usually calm.
jenn h says
we get 2 books a sip of water and a little coloring time… seems to work!
Brittany says
Typically, things are pretty calm about bedtime. We stick to a pretty tight schedule and routine, but pay close attention to the kid’s cues that they are ready for bed.
Laura Sherrow says
Calming before bedtime is key. Quiet time for reading and reflecting about the day is helpful. Cherish every moment even if at times you are ready for alone time. Laura
Janice M. Salotti says
We read two stories of our grandson’s choice snuggled together in our bed. Hugs and kisses when I tuck him in. Then I play the music box he wants, I have three, and hold his hand sometimes as he goes to sleep. When he was younger all his animal friends gave him a kiss good night and cuddled up for the night. Sometimes he wants to talk a bit also.
Betsy says
we have a routine we follow to help with bedtime
Betsy says
tweet: https://twitter.com/betsy5454/status/669212961446170624
Cathy says
Bedtime is almost always a relaxing time with my grandson. (I live with them) There could be a few moments of “i’m not ‘seepy'” but once he is in his bed he snuggles in with no fuss and it asleep in a minute or two at most.
Kimberly Menssen says
Check out my tweet:
https://twitter.com/kimbermenssen/status/669212099399192576
Lisa Questad says
It can be pretty stressful at times, but slowly becoming calmer.
Kimberly Menssen says
Making sure that I have a “connection time” with my kids at bedtime is critical to making it successful. We read a few books together, but then I make sure that I have a one on one moment with each of them too. It could be just chatting or a 2 min. song while I snuggle with them in their bed. That one on one attention and love before they go to sleep helps them feel secure and comfortable and makes the bedtime routine much easier. I’m excited to read The Rabbit Who Wants To Fall Asleep with them.
Shawna m says
https://twitter.com/momofajedi/status/669208662733250561
Shawna m says
It really all depends on my sons mood as to whether or not it’s stressful or calm. The stressful nights really help you appreciate the calm ones!!
Deb says
Routine, routine, routine! Try to get children down to bed around the same time and do the same bedtime activities. Seems to help the kids know what to expect so less bedtime battles.
Laura says
We try to make bedtime calm and relaxing and it usually starts that way but can sometimes be difficult.
Betsy says
I try to keep it calm & a time to fill up their love tanks at the end of the day, but there are days that it is definitely stressful, especially if I’m doing it by myself. I would love this book.
SaraMeche says
It is usually stressful. We have a difficult time getting our little one to sleep!!
Tessa Haynes says
love the idea of rest time before bedtime – going to start this tonight!
Tabitha says
Usually calm. The kids know the routine and do well with it!
Desiree H. says
I do my best to make sure bedtime isn’t stressful. It’s all about the tone set by the patents and how we react to the children pushing back against bedtime. We make sure to stick with a loose routine and it works like a charm!
Devin Adams says
I have a very active two year old and it is getting harder and harder to get him to bed at a reasonable time. I found this article very helpful.
Elizabeth Zeanchock says
Bedtime is usually pretty calm for us. We mostly follow Daniel Tiger’s routine with our 3 year old. Bath time, pj’s, brush teeth, look for and say good night to the moon, story and song, then off to bed. Some nights our son even decides early to start the routine and walks us through it instead of the grown ups being in control.
Shanon says
Sometimes it is calm, sometimes it is stressful. It just depends on the day, what we have going on, who is home to help, etc. I do my best to make it calm and enjoy the snuggle time. But sometimes real life gets in the way.
Rebecca says
It all depends on the day:)) We have 3 children most of the time our middle daughter and youngest fall right to sleep after reading. My oldest son seems to take a little while to fall asleep, but he reads and then lays in bed until he is asleep. Last night it was the other way around:) We love, love, love, love reading before bed. I read to each child and then they can look at book until we shut the lights off. It gives me time with each one, sometimes it takes awhile:) Merry Christmas
Krystle says
Bedtime is calm in our house, as the article states a routine is important and I couldn’t agree more. There are occasional times when she acts up and doesn’t want to go to bed but overall she is very good about knowing it’s bedtime.
Amy F. says
I have no tips to give…I need them! Our toddler sleeps with us and I would like to move him into a small bed, even if it is in our room.
Erica Portman says
My daughter is one and we have her on a strict bedtime. She knows around 8:30 when we put her in her crib and read to her that it’s bed time. I’m happy we started so early. With my first child I was every where with bedtimes
Mercy says
Bed time is not as fun in our household but we make it work with bath time to reading time
Jeremy says
Bedtime is very relaxing in our house. One of the few moments we can all concentrate on each other instead of work or chores.
Carissa says
For the longest time, bedtime with my 2 year old daughter was so stressful. But we finally figured out what the problem was and got rid of her nap. She now goes to bed so easy. And sleeps for a staright 12 hours. Glad we figured out what was wrong. :)
Solomiya says
It’s time for calm and relaxation for me and my daughter! The best time reconnect after busy day!
Dorothy Boucher says
shared
https://twitter.com/tisonlyme143/status/669193686924795904
[email protected]
Rachel says
Because we have a set routine, bedtime is always fun and relaxing.
Dorothy Boucher says
I always encourage my children to read to there children during the day and before bed, When my grandbabies are here, I enjoy reading to them before they fall off to lala land :) I think its just relaxing and it gives you that extra time to spend with one another..
@tisonlyme143
Shay Vogg says
Tension usually..the 2 year old actually goes to bed better than the 4 year old! It definitely helps to have a routine. We have also found that if we get into pjs, eat a quick snack, brush teeth and go potty 30 mins before actual bedtime it goes much better. They get ready, then play again and then we read books, spray our “Monster spray” and turn out the lights and we have far less tears and the don’t play around while getting teeth brushed etc..
Joe U says
Bedtime is always a time of calm and relaxing.
Mary Voratut says
Bedtime is time of calm in our house. We always keep the routine going and I love the conversations my son and I have at bedtime. It is a great time to connect especially when the kids have a lot of questions or just need to vent.
Kelly D says
Tweet
https://twitter.com/Kellydpa/status/669178459076227072
Kelly D says
Bedtime is usually calm and relaxing. We play her favorite CD that helps her fall asleep every night.
Emmalene says
Well bedtime is meant to be a time of calm and relaxing but my twins fight it tooth & nail every night so it ends up more tense. Every night I sing them twinkle twinkle and that helps them relax though!
MaryAnn says
I have a laminated picture chart for morning and bedtime. My son looks forward to getting ready for bed because he likes following his chart. It makes him feel very independent.
Heather R says
We do bath and then quiet activities to bring the energy levels down before story time. Keeping the same routine even on weekends helps because he’s usually ready to go to bed when the time comes.
Patty wright says
Reading a story before going to sleep.
natasha lamoreux says
We do baths then immediately lay down and watch a few minutes of tv than he usually passes out.
simply click the next site says
Fabulous, what a website it is! This website gives useful information to us, keep it up.
wen budro says
My tips are pretty much the same. Stick to a routine and allow plenty of wind-down time with the bath and stories. I also like to dim the lights when it’s story time.
wen budro says
I tweeted https://twitter.com/wendybudrow/status/668964555049951232
Caroline says
I would say it depends on how dinner went, if dinner goes well then bedtime is relaxing.
Jessie C. says
tweet-https://twitter.com/tcarolinep/status/668875840172593152
Jessie C. says
We create and are consistent with the bedtime routine in the house to help kids sleep well.
tcarolinep at gmail dot com
Erin Ellis says
Tweet:
https://twitter.com/ErinLoves2Run/status/668822673963683842
Erin
ErinLoves2Run at gmail dot com
Erin Ellis says
I admit it’s a little chaotic currently! Thank you for the wonderful giveaway.
Erin
ErinLoves2Run at gmail dot com
Mami2jcn says
tweet–https://twitter.com/mami2jcn/status/668813359077335040
Mami2jcn says
We use a white noise machine to help with sleep.
Corie says
I’ve found that with my 3.5 year old bedtime is much calmer when he has not napped because he’s sleepy and ready for bed at 7:30. The days he does nap bedtime is a struggle because he just isn’t tired until later and by then it’s past my bedtime!