I’m sure you can remember a movie or book that was enjoyable but then ends poorly. It is such a letdown and can downgrade it from great to just good or maybe even worse. How something is finished leaves an indelible impression on people’s memory. I love my kids and spending time with them is a major priority. However, if you have young kids and are anything like me, you are exhausted by the end of the day. I look forward to having just a little alone time to unplug. Many times, I wish I could just snap my fingers and magically have my kids asleep.
That’s when I realize that I am missing an opportunity to finish the day strong. I’m letting something that could be purposeful just fizzle out. Here are some bedtime routines to start putting your kids to bed with meaning.
Table of Contents
Make up a story.
There are a number of ways to do it. You can make up a story all by yourself. This can be tough, even for people who are creative. One way to start is to tell them a true story about your childhood. When I am struggling, I’ll think of a movie I like and tell a really simple version of it. Don’t worry, I tell them it is not an original. However, the way I enjoy more is making a story up together. Start telling the story and then have them tell the next part. Keep taking turns. In most stories, all you need is a hero (come up with a name), a description of them and their environment, a trial they endure, and then how they overcome the difficulty. My kids ask me all the time if we can make up a story.
Lay down with them and discuss the day.
For kids, going to bed can be a lonely experience. Laying down alongside them reassures them that they are not alone because you are walking through life with them. It’s also a chance to talk. Ask them questions such as, “What were the best and worst parts of your day?” When you are done talking, don’t feel like you need to stay there until they fall asleep. The last thing they will remember from their day is that you wanted to spend time with them. Even when you lay down with them for a moment.
Read to them.
Not only does it encourage them to read themselves, but it nurtures their imaginations. There are also books with important life lessons that you can talk about. It’s an easy way to help build their character.
Close the day out with a final word.
“If you could tell your kids one thing, what would it be? Tell them that every night.”
Pray together.
You might not be the praying type or you might think you need to “be good at it.” This is a great way to end the day for a number of reasons. First, it lets your kids escape from the noise and stress the day. There is something therapeutic about being quiet. It can bring peace, which will help them sleep better. Second, praying for one another is a wonderful way to show that you care deeply for each other. You will also hear what’s on their mind—perhaps things they would never share in a normal conversation.
