The Bedtime Routine

Bedtime, a prelude to a special night for bedwetting children. I admit that with six kids in the house, bedtime tends to feel like a circus. I still try to spend time with each child before tucking them in, because I know we'll always cherish those evening routines and special moments. I start the bedtime ritual well before my kids go to sleep. I try to give them enough time to eat a snack, take a bath, brush their teeth, and put on their pajamas. We start after dinner, trying to keep things calm. When the kids start running around the house like monkeys, I'll play a video, pull out a board game, or read them a few books. The little ones love to curl up with me on the couch while I read their favorites over and over again. Then it's bath time. My husband recently took over this chore, which is wonderful, not only because it gives me a break, but also because it gives him time to bond with the little ones. It's another chance for the kids to unwind before bed. (Never mind those times when their dad excites them until they're splashing everywhere and losing their minds.) Then it's time for pajamas. I remember using absorbent night pants to help my son manage his bedwetting when he was younger. We always kept a pack of night pants in his wardrobe so he would remember to put one on when he put on his pajamas. The pants absorbed all the wetness perfectly, so he would wake up dry and unembarrassed. This way, we didn't have to change the sheets in the middle of the night. Finally, each of my children has their own tuck-in ritual. Clay always kisses me on the right cheek and eye. I don't know why, but he does this every night before falling asleep. Brooklyn has to cling to my arm until she falls asleep. Lexi loves to be tickled, and she squirms and giggles for a few minutes before settling down to sleep. Jackson wouldn't admit it, but he likes to give me a big hug before retiring for the evening. And finally, Austin and Savannah give me a quick kiss before bed.