What is it about kids and bedtime? Every night, without exception, we undergo a negotiation process about bedtime. This is baffling to me because bedtime has been consistent - 8:00 pm on school nights. It has never been up for debate. However, once bedtime is announced, it is met with a series of groan, whines, and pleas for an extension “can we stay up a little longer… pleeeeeeese!”

I also don’t understand the resistance to sleep. What I would give to have someone declare a specific bedtime complete with a tucking in and stuffed bear to hold. It sounds like heaven to me. Maybe kids are just afraid of missing something and grown-ups know there’s not much to miss.

I remember when I was a kid holding onto my mother’s arm and refusing to let her leave. We would practically have a wrestling match as she tried to make a break for the door. I would beg her for one more story or one more song. Now I can appreciate how tired she was and how much she wanted what I resisted – the permission to sleep without having to make lunches, pick up toys, and finish that last load of laundry.

My kids are no different. They will stop at nothing for just a few more minutes of wake time. Last night’s attempt was innovative but not effective. Both boys came into my room with this report,

Colt: “Luke keeps calling me Dumb Dumb head”

Mom: “Luke, stop calling your brother Dumb Dumb Head and go to sleep.”

Luke: “Okay, I will call him Dumbdee Head instead”

Mom: “Bed – NOW!!!!”

Minutes later, my youngest appeared at my doorway and said, “My ears are dirty”. Although I give him points for creativity, his second attempt also failed. He had to return to bed - dirty ears and all.

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