How can my preschooler fall asleep without electronics?
Often, little ones need electronics such as a smart phone, tablet, or television in order to fall asleep. Considering how stimulating these devices can be for young children, discouraging their use at bedtime is a good idea. At the same time, these devices can be tough to take away so you may want to continue including them in the routine – just much earlier in the routine. For instance, you can have your little one use the electronic device for a few minutes early in the bedtime routine. When you come in to the room to read stories, tell your little one it is time to put the device away and read stories. Be sure to do this in a way that communicates to the child that you are excited about the stories. Read the stories calmly and under dim light to help settle things down for bedtime. This will certainly take some practice, but over time you will be able to find a middle ground.
About Dr. Michael Gradisar
