Bonkers at Bedtime
Bedtime puts fear into me these days.
A toddler who mostly doesn’t sleep during the day but continues full sprint ahead for a majority of the day.
This makes a very tired mummy, a very tired toddler and then a very stroppy pair.
And then add a 4 month old boy undergoing a major growth spurt hence milk monster, and the wonders of potty training for the toddler.
I don’t think I need to paint a clearer picture or provide you a soundtrack – I expect you might even be able to hear us!
Baby crying for milk, toddler charging around the bedroom naked. Do you need the toilet? NO! Let’s get your pyjamas on… NO! Let’s brush your teeth…NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
And poor baby wanting milk. So, I give him some milk. Toddler charges around, baby not impressed and very fractious by now.
But please don’t be disheartened. If you are about to embark on the second child experience. It will be ok. I’m learning some techniques on the go.
Start bedtime even earlier.
Try (easier said than done) not to react.
Try to anticipate toddler’s stalling techniques. Put bedtime socks on, get soft blanket, stories, teddies etc all ready. Whatever works to help you keep your cool; sometimes it’s easier to just go with it, but don’t wait for them to suggest it; then YOU are in control (honest!)
And sometimes just let the younger one watch the older one run around; keeps them very entertained and gives you a rest ready for mission impossible.
Good luck and good night!
