What to say when your child won't go to bed
It's bedtime and your child is stalling — one more story, more water, not tired.
Try saying
“We read two stories — those were lovely. Now it's sleep time.”
Warm, but the limit holds.
“I'll see you in the morning. I love you.”
A calm, consistent goodnight phrase.
“You're safe, and I'm nearby.”
For the worries hiding behind the stalling.
Try to avoid
- •New negotiations each night — it teaches that stalling works.
- •Escalating with threats — it wakes the brain up further.
- •Giving in to 'just one more' repeatedly.
Why this helps
An overtired brain often looks wired, not sleepy. A calm, predictable wind-down and a boundary held warmly help children trust the routine and settle.
Go deeper: read the full article →
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