Bedtime routines for children with special needs can be as challenging as accomplishing daytime activities.
But by using many of the same goal-setting principles that help you through the day, getting your child ready for tomorrow doesn’t need to be the challenge it often is.
Here are some tips:
- Establish a bedtime.
- Establish a routine. This might include using a journal to jot down what happened during the day and what your child hopes to accomplish the following day. Activities should be soothing, like taking a warm bath. But consider your child’s experiences first. For example, a bath might be too overwhelming or even frightening to include as a nighttime activity.
- Use visual aids that chart the bedtime routine. Saying good night to certain people and objects also might help.
- Listen to calm music.
- Plan for the next day. This includes packing your child’s backpack together and laying out his or her clothes.
