Calmly and tenderly… How do you accustom your child to sleeping alone?

The moment of sleep is one of the most sensitive moments in a child’s day, especially between the age of one and seven years. Between the mother’s desire for her child to sleep in his room and the child’s fear of separation, a long journey of attempts and searches for solutions begins that passes this period smoothly.

Although a child sleeping with his parents seems familiar and warm, studies indicate that about 26% of school-age children in Arab societies sleep with their parents regularly, which indicates the spread of this habit. But the question remains: How does a mother help her child sleep alone without screaming or fear?

Dr. Enas El-Sharqawi, professor of psychiatry, explains that organizing a child’s sleep on his own is an emotional journey that gradually builds his personality and independence. The common denominator between all successful methods is: tenderness, calmness, and continuity.
Thoughtful steps for a child to sleep alone
1. Build a consistent, warm sleep routine
Routines give the child a feeling of security, such as taking a warm bath, wearing pajamas, and reciting a prayer or short verses. It is preferable that the time before bed be free of noise and distractions, and the same steps are repeated daily so that the child learns that these moments mean sleep time.
2. Use stories to reassure the child
Night stories reduce anxiety, whether through the mother or interactive smart devices. Focusing on stories with moral values ​​or folk tales enhances the child’s sense of belonging and warmth.
3. Gradual separation without harshness
Do not force the child to sleep in his room suddenly. Start by sitting next to him until he falls asleep, then gradually reduce your presence. This method reduces night crying and nightmares, and promotes self-reliance.
4. Provide a safe and attractive environment
The child’s room should be comfortable and attractive, with his involvement in choosing the details. Use warm lighting and soothing scents such as lavender, and air out the room before bed.
5. Stay away from screens before bed
Phones and tablets delay sleep due to blue light. Replace it with reading, simple coloring, or quiet talk with the child.
6. Positive motivation and rewards
Use a sleep schedule with nightly stickers, and give the child small rewards after a certain number of nights. This turns sleeping alone into an enjoyable accomplishment that the child feels proud of.
7. The moral presence of the mother
Even if the child sleeps in his room, his feeling of the mother’s presence nearby is important. Words like “I’m here if you need me” give him security and gradually build his confidence.
8. The role of family values
Children learn from home; If they see calm and harmony in the sleeping ritual, they accept separate sleep easily. You can turn the transition into a positive event by celebrating the first night alone or choosing a new cover for the occasion.

Quick tips for mothers
• Set a specific bedtime and wake-up time daily.
• Turn off screens an hour before bed.
• Make a story or prayer an essential part of the routine.
• Use dim lighting and soothing scents.
• Do not rush to make the complete transition, gradual progression is the secret.
• Praise every progress, even if it is simple.