It's time to rise and shine, but your sleepy-headed child just won't get out of bed. What to do? You've probably tried yelling and screaming, and found that wasn't effective. You may have even resorted to dragging the kid to school in some half-dressed state, hoping that would cure him. It probably didn't work either. Now, learn some techniques that will work to make your morning more peaceful and stress-free.
First, plan a little extra time in the morning to allow for a more leisurely wake-up routine. Some fights can be eliminated with the simple allowance of a few moments between the wake-up call and putting feet on the floor. We adults often use the snooze alarm to accomplish the same purpose. The difference is that we allow for that extra five minutes either by setting the alarm earlier or by hurrying a bit more with the morning tasks. Kids may not be able to reason that far ahead, and so will need some guidance and limits. I recommend NOT using the snooze button on the alarm, since it lends itself to multiple snoozes. Instead, try setting two alarms or an alarm and a timer. The first bell is the wake up warning, and the second is the get-out-of-bed-now call.
Some children respond well to having a goal or something exciting to do in the morning. If your schedule allows, you may want to consider an early morning walk or other fun activity. Others prefer a quieter routine that includes TV, books or similar activities reserved for family members who get up and ready promptly. Whatever you choose, having a routine and providing consistent expectations (as well as a consistent wake-up time) will help your child know what to expect each morning.
Some children respond well to a quick pick-me-up as soon as they awaken. A few sips of juice or a taste of jelly can sometimes provide enough quick energy to get slow starters going in the morning. Another idea is to give your sleepy-head a back rub or a scratch for a few minutes to start the day off on the right foot. Have the youngster actually get out of bed for this treat, then send him or her on their way to dress.
Children who complain of cold clothes can be pacified by letting them dress under their covers. A few minutes under the warm blankets will warm the clothing to toasty temperatures even when you are camping or in other unusually cool circumstances. Alarm clocks may intrigue younger children; just set them beyond reach of the bed and avoid use of the snooze alarm.
Whatever gimmicks or techniques you choose to use, consistent expectations will help most children. Unless there are unusual circumstances, like illness or disrupted sleep, you may want to set a regular wake up time, even when there is no school or other commitments. This will go a long way to helping your child learn to rise more easily and independently.
