3 Simple Tips To Get Kids Settled Into Their Rooms
Transitioning a child into their room can be met with some resistance. After sharing the same space with parents or a guardian, this move may not be entirely smooth. For many children, it is because of the fear of the dark, feeling alone, or simply preferring to be in their parents' room. According to the law, children of the opposite sex aged ten and above must have separate rooms. An alternative is to have them share with a sibling of the same gender. If there are extra rooms and you want them there earlier, here are some tips to get them to settle comfortably.
Deliberately create an air of excitement
This is a psychological strategy that works effectively on many children. Creating excitement about the space helps your kids buy into the idea of having their room. In many cases, the fear of sleeping alone discourages them from transitioning into their own space. You can take care of this by moving your child's favourite toys into the room. Additionally, instead of starting the first day of transition at night, it would help to start during the day.
You can encourage them to take afternoon naps in their new room for several days. It pays to attach some incentive to this process. For example, you can treat them to favourite snacks or TV shows. Try to focus on kids' shows that depict characters their age sleeping in their rooms and beds. Getting your kids excited about this will get them looking forward to the transition. Finally, experts recommend gifting them a new toy that helps calm them down on the first night of sleeping alone.
Install light-controlling elements
It would help if you took extra deliberate measures when a child is uncomfortable being in a dark room. This includes creating an ambience that encourages restful sleep. The secret is not to create a too-lit or overly dark-room. Light-controlling components like plantation shutters, blinds, curtains, and battery-operated lamps will be helpful. You can teach your child how to control any of these elements. Giving them control over usage can eliminate any lingering doubt about the transition.
Avoid exposing your young child to electrical light-controlling elements is recommended. You don't want to increase exposure to hazards as you gradually ease them into the transition phase. This is why installing dimming switches close to their bedside is not recommended. The ideal time to do this may be from age ten.
Let your child help you decorate the room
This is an approach that involves creating a sense of ownership. When kids help set up their new rooms, they get familiar with the space. They are also likely to feel like a part of the room's creation and want to experience their work's outcome naturally. You can start by asking them to help you pick new furniture for the room. Let them choose their preferred colour for the walls and the room's overall theme. Again, they can pick out the new bedding and everything else to put the room together.
If you're painting yourself, getting your kids to help in little ways would be an excellent idea. This should only be an option if the paint has reduced VOCs and you’ve taken precautions. While you do this with your young ones' help, they will gradually develop a sense of control. They sense that the new room is nothing to feel uncomfortable about. As discomfort dissipates, it is replaced by renewed awareness and acceptance.
