Let your child be part of the plan
Older children often have their own ideas about bedtime. A calmer evening begins with listening to what feels difficult and explaining why rest matters for your household. You do not need to turn the conversation into a lecture.
Choose a short wind-down
Work together on a sequence your child can repeat: preparing for tomorrow, getting ready, quiet reading and a goodnight. Discuss screen use and stimulating activities before bed, and choose practical changes you can maintain.
Make room for worries
Some children become more talkative or worried when the day quiets down. Offer time to connect before the final goodnight. If fears or distress are persistent, involve an appropriate healthcare professional rather than expect a bedtime routine to solve everything.
Review together
Ask which step helped and which felt difficult. Katrina’s youth support can help you organize a routine around your child and family responsibilities. A free 15-minute introductory call is a way to explore whether it fits.
Coaching and healthcare have different roles
This guide offers general education, not a medical assessment. Talk to a qualified healthcare provider about health, growth, feeding, breathing or persistent distress. For an urgent concern, seek urgent medical help.
Reliable parent resources
Health Canada: safe sleep for every sleep
Canadian Paediatric Society: healthy sleep