It is that time of year where children (and parents) are transitioning from summer vacation back to a school schedule. Often the schedule and bedtime routines look different in the summer months than when children are getting up early to go to school. This may be a prime time for children to struggle a little in making that adjustment. I want to share some strategies with parents that can shift struggles into bedtime blessings. Spiritually speaking, this is a great opportunity to practice partnering with God in implementing loving authority as parents in “governing” bedtime. God has been teaching me how to walk out the authority and power that I have in Christ to bring Kingdom order: first within me, in my spirit, soul and body and then around me, into my home and life outside of me. This is not the ungodly type of authority and power that demands control and is rooted in fear, which leads to manipulation. This is co-creating with God a loving environment that offers: order instead of chaos, love instead of fear, security instead of instability. In other words, we are learning how to bring Kingdom life and peace in a world of chaos and fear. So what does this structure look like when applied to bedtime for children?
Make Bedtime a Blessing
Listen with Love
Check in with their hearts. Identify how they are emotionally and help them to release any heaviness they may be carrying from their day before going to bed and then realigning emotionally with healthy, truthful emotions. “God I give you the worry I feel for my friend. I receive your love and peace.”
Words of Affirmation–
When you tuck each child into bed, intentionally give a word of encouragement or blessing that fits the age. Be specific in acknowledging steps of growth and facing challenges. Tell your children you love them by name as you say goodnight.
- “I love you Tom.” “You are such a blessing to me.”
- Toddlers- “ You are learning to share your toys!”
- Teenager- “You used such wisdom today in handling that argument with your brother.”
Pray Audibly–
Fathers and Mothers, let your children hear your voice praying over them. It is not the length of the prayers but the authority you release in agreeing with God’s heart for them.
- Toddlers- “Thank you God, for watching over Johnny as he sleeps and give him your peace.”
- Teenager- “Thank you God, for the restful sleep you are providing for Susie. Bless her to recall the information she has studied for her exam tomorrow and fill her with your peace.”
Loving Healthy Touch–
This is a beautiful blessing to incorporate into bedtime. It is healing for the soul, when a parent can give gentle, loving touch in the form of hugs, kisses that are healthy and safe.
Share a Bible Verse that Encourages–
The internet makes it easy for us to find scripture for any topic that we need. One of my favorite bedtime verses is Psalm 4:8
In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, LORD, make me dwell in safety.
There are many practical steps that parents can take to establish a consistent bedtime routine, but what I have shared will bring a deeper level of relational connection for children with their parents and God.
Steps in Pursuit
- Parents have the opportunity to direct how a day ends for their children. If what I have shared has not been a part of your bedtime routine, take one at a time and begin to be intentional in adding that bedtime blessing.
- I have had both fathers and mothers tell me that they are not comfortable, showing affection or praying out loud. This may be an opportunity for you to grow, as you allow God to love your children through you. Prayerfully ask God to give you what you need in blessing your children.
- If you had painful experiences as a child at bedtime, you may need to receive support in your own healing process. I would be honored to support any healing work that brings you more freedom in your own role as a parent.
There are so many benefits to bedtime blessings for both children and adults. I pray that God’s loving presence and peace fills your homes and hearts as you partner with him.
Continue the Pursuit,
Denise
