Raising Children: Child Behavior Problems and Solutions

Problem one: Child refuses to take a nap or go to bed...

Bedtime should be a peaceful ritual not a struggle. Bedtime must be part of the daily and night routine or schedule. Some ideas you may wish to use in helping to correct this problem are:

Have naptime and bedtime at the same time and place each day and night.

Make sure bedding always fresh and clean and beds are made. A toddler especially will appreciate the neatness and order and in return will enjoy being is his cozy and peaceful sleeping space.

Keep your child's bedroom for sleep, not the couch or your bedroom. Teach the child that we all have a special room that is our very own called a bedroom. It is where we sleep. You can make your child's room a happy space for them by decorating it in an appealing way. Bright colors such as blue green red and yellow will help to stimulate brain productivity and learn while soft muted pastels will enhance calmness and relaxation. Try a combination of both for the perfect combination of atmosphere. Kids will be less resistant to sleep in a room that they love. 

Never use threats like: "if you do not pick up your toys I will send you to bed" or say things such as: "if you are naughty is will put you to bed". Doing so causes children to fear bedtime and feel like every time they must sleep the are being punished. When bedtime becomes a ritual done every day and night it is normal, not determined by the child's actions, behavior or attitude. Never make your child feel controlled or bad.