Routines tend to go out the window during the Christmas break, but come January it’s time to start getting back to normal. As an adult it is easy enough to get back into your regular sleep pattern, but not so for toddlers.
In fact, it can be extremely difficult to get your little one back to their normal routine and, at times, it can sometimes feel like you have taken a couple of steps backwards.
However, it doesn’t need to be all heartache and tears - there are plenty of things that you can do to help you get the house back to normal.
1. Start off gradually
If your little one has been going to bed an hour or two after their normal time, start to send them to bed ten or 15 minutes earlier. Gradual changes will ease them back into their routine a lot easier than just getting straight into it.
2. Don’t make a huge fuss about it
Don’t start telling your child that they have to start going to bed earlier or that things are about to change as this may cause them unnecessary upset. They will try to push whatever boundaries are being set so don’t make them out to be a bigger deal than they are.
3. Expect resistance
Expect that your little one will try to resist any changes that you make to their day - this will make it a lot easier for you to cope. And remember, no matter how much they may kick and scream, routine is good for them.
4. Stay calm
Your little one can become anxious if you are showing signs of anxiety so try to stay as calm as possible. Things won’t change overnight and for the first few days, at least, it may seem like an impossible task, but it won’t last. If you are struggling to cope or are having a bad day, ask your other half to take them to bed. Alternately, leave the room and take ten deep breaths before returning to the task at hand.
5. Keep at it
It WILL take time and it WILL be extremely trying but keep at it. And whatever you do, don’t feel guilty for breaking it in the first place, we all need a little change every now and then.
