Bedtime Bootcamp

We have always worked hard at maintaining a consistent bedtime routine and a fairly strict bedtime (right around 8pm) with the kids.

Jeremiah and I have always felt that having uninterrupted couple time in the evening is very important for us....and them. We know that having a strong and healthy marriage is one of the most important gifts we can give our kids.

We started early with both children and by 3 months old they both were on a bedtime schedule. We have maintained the same routine over the last 3 years...with a few exceptions made for travel, company, teething or sickness.

That said, we have been noticing a downward spiral of non-adherence to that routine from Ella over the past few months. I know she is three and this is her time to test the boundaries and see if we are really going to be consistent. I also know that sleep is very important for her development and her maintaining a "happy heart" attitude throughout the day.

And come on, it should not take over an hour for the girl to go to bed! That is just ridiculous! =)

Therefore, after getting back from being out of town last week...we enrolled Ella into our bedtime bootcamp =)

The new enforced rules are as follows:

1) No getting out of bed for any reason other than the below listed exceptions:

- Potty (this is done by herself...negating any attention-seeking potty trips!)
- Picking up Ezra's paci or blanket

2) No callbacks for anything other than blood or bodily fluid emergencies

Of course this means that Jeremiah and I have to be consistent with our consequences for breaking these rules. That blasted responsibility thing again =)

The 1st night was a little rough as she wanted to test if we meant business.

We did.

In contrast the last 4 nights have been incredibly smooth.

No callbacks, no getting out of bed, no "my tummy hurts", no "I need a tissue", no "the ladybugs are getting me", no "you forgot to do the monkey dance and twirl on your head while juggling 18 oranges"...

Ahh...sweet quiet blissful uninterrupted time to ourselves.

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