Daddy/Mommy, I can't sleep...
Bedtime can be a great time of anxiety for any little but I do have a few suggestions on how you can make it better, calm fears and improve intimacy.
1) Give your little a bath using lavender bubble bath. She’ll/He’ll love playing with the bubbles and the lavender offers a soothing and comfort through its aromas. A nice hot bath, given slowly, will relax her and relieve tension. Use a sponge or bath loofah in a massaging way for extra calming effect.
2.) Brush her/his hair for at least five minutes. The action stimulates the scalp and relieves stress naturally. Stroking her/his hair in bed can offer the same effect. Use a soft bristled brush.
3.) Essential oils. Aura Cacia makes a great line of these and they can be found most places like Walgreens at a very reasonable price. The bottles look small but a few drips in the palm goes a long way. Use your finger to swipe across her/his neck, collar bone, behind her ears. . Cheeks. . And a little on her/his pillow. And of course I recommend lavender. The orange scent is also good for a nice pick me up when she’s/he’s sad. The feelings of daddy’s/mommy’s touch along with the scents makes for a relaxing time.
4.) A nice massage using lavender lotion. It’s good for the tension and very relaxing. The feeling of daddy’s/mommy’s hands also works wonders for taking away stress and anxiety.
5.) For littles who are afraid of the dark but a night light isn’t enough, I recommend Pillow pets. Pillow pets makes a great line of both glow in the dark and light up creatures. The glow relieves fear of the dark while the softness of the pet makes it a cuddly stuffie. When the pillow pet is folded up it also makes a great stash pocket for a paci.
6.) No electronic devices for an hour before bed. The hidden blue lights that power the screen are a stimulant and ramp up the nervous system. Instead, tell her/him a story (no action or peril) and make sure that you put both of you into it as main characters. .. or listen to soft music while you cuddle and speak reassuring words to her/him. Help her/him meditate by speaking in a low calm voice.
7.) Search for monsters and things hiding in the dark. Use a flashlight. You’re daddy/mommy, her great protector… just telling her/him they aren’t there isn’t enough. She/he wants to be assured by seeing you come out from under the bed unharmed