Bedtime can be tricky for parents, but there’s a magical solution called “Power-Down Hour,” which turns evenings into calm, happy family time. Imagine this: after dinner, everyone changes into cozy pajamas and gathers in the dining room.
It’s a special hour filled with games and stories before bedtime. This routine helps kids sleep better and makes bedtime a breeze.
What’s a Power Down Hour?
Power-Down Hour is the hour before your child’s bedtime. It’s a time for calm activities that help your child relax. It’s awesome because it brings the family together for fun activities, improves children’s behavior, teaches kids to be present and calm, and even improves maths skills!
If your child wakes up happy and ready for the day, great! But if they seem tired or grumpy, the power-down hour might be the secret ingredient you’ve been missing all along,
A New Sleep Routine
Dr. Pierrette Mimi Poinsett, a qualified pediatrician, says that if your child feels sleepy or irritable during the day, they might not be getting enough rest. Power-Down Hour is like a little helper for a good night’s sleep.
- Pick a Time: Choose a consistent time every day for Power-Down Hour.
- Plan Backwards: Start from bedtime and plan dinner and other routines to keep this time free.
- Choose Fun Activities: Keep it simple at first, but prioritize games that are screen-free and enjoyable for everyone (i.e., don’t choose a game you hate!!).
Unlock the Magic of Bedtime
Power-Down Hour is like a mini-vacation before bedtime, especially great for school-aged kids. It helps them wind down after a busy day. According to Dr. Lauren Collins, a certified pediatric sleep consultant, children need restorative sleep to learn better, play, and be their best selves. So, if you want bedtime to be more fun and less stressful, give Power-Down Hour a try in your home. It’s a simple, magical way to end the day with smiles and sweet dreams!
Remember, sticking to your Power-Down Hour routine is the key to its magic. It works best when you do it every day, not just on some days. Even if you’re super busy and can’t do a full hour, that’s okay! You can do a shorter version.
Dr. Collins suggests limiting screen time an hour before bedtime and keeping a simple bedtime routine. Consistency makes the magic happen, even if it’s a mini version on busy days!