A 3-step bedtime routine that really works!

Hi Moms,

I am sure you have heard of someone that has trouble putting their infant or toddler to bed. Research has found that 20 to 30 percent of parents struggle with this daily and you may be one of them. Well, there is hope! The research study collected data from 400 Mom’s who had problems with their infant or child waking up 3 or more times during the night or sleeping less than 9 hours. Half of the Mom’s had infants from 7 to 18 months and the other half of them had toddlers who were 18 to 36 months.

They randomly selected ½ of the Mom’s to begin this 3-step bedtime routine and the other half continued doing what they had been. The goal was to see if it changed their current situation and it did! Their child was waking up less during the night and sleeping for longer periods.

The study recommended the following 3-steps to do with your child before putting them to bed.
1. Bedtime bath
2. Infant massage or if you have a toddler then apply lotion all over them.
3. Quiet activity- Cuddle them and sing to them and dim the lights

All three of these steps allow you to really bond and connect with your child. Today’s environment can be so stressful so implemented these 3-steps or creating another type of relaxing bedtime routine will allow for predictability and also relieve any stress that your child may be experiencing.

Children need structure. The more you can implement daily routines in your household, the less stressful it will be for everybody. As a result, Mom and Dad get a good night’s rest and some quiet time together, which research found definitely helps with maternal mood. In addition to this, your child’s behavior improves during the day because of their sleep the night before.
I would love to hear your bedtime rituals with your infant or toddler that have been successful to you. Please post and inspire other parents who may need some support.

Dr. Nina

Do you have a strong willed child?

Hi Everyone,

Do you have a strong willed child? How do you cope with power struggles? Tune in this Saturday on TXA 21 during the 8 o'clock hour to learn more. I will also follow up with a post!

Dr. Nina

Autism information

Hi Everyone,

I hope you were able to watch my last segment on Autism. The most important thing I can stress is that early intervention is key. One of the hallmark features of autism is impaired social interaction. Children with autism often fail to respond to their name, avoid eye contact, and have a difficult time interpreting what others are thinking and feeling. You will find that a child with autism has a difficult time making friends as well.

In addition to this, you will find they have a delay in verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors and interest. To hear more, listen to my segment.

I know recognizing and seeing these delays in your child can be upsetting. Remember, there are great resources and people to help you. Autism is not curable but it is treatable and there are some great treatment plans in place. Highly structured and specialized programs seem to work best with autistic children. Get support today for you and your child if you suspect your child may be autistic.

You can contact your pediatrician or your local school district and ask for the special education department. They will guide you and evaluate your son or daughter.

You are not alone in this process. Stay positive and stay focused on what can be done for your child.

Dr. Nina