Getting your kids to bed can be a nightmare. Every parent just wants a relaxing bedtime routine without all the struggles of waiting for their child to cooperate and get into bed. However, parents often have to wait on the floor of their children’s room until the they falls asleep to prevent them from getting up and tip-toeing out. But if you want to change up your nightly situation and make it a lot easier and less stressful, consider using the 5 hacks below that will get your kids to bed in no time!

1. Weighted Blankets

There have been many studies regarding the impact that weighted blankets have on the way children sleep. All have conveyed the same results: weighted blankets apply just the right amount of pressure on your body to release endorphins and serotonin, the hormones that help your body relax at night. When your child is in a dark room, these chemicals turn to melatonin and ultimately help them fall asleep. If your child has a has a difficult time going to bed, then this product might be worth experimenting with. This trick is often used for people with autism and other disorders, and has been cited for creating a better sleep environment for those who use it.

2. Multivitamins

If you have heard that magnesium can cause sleep problems in adults, it’s the same deal for children. Most kids are picky eaters, so they are probably lacking in some important nutrients. An imbalance between magnesium and calcium in turn can cause issues with falling asleep and relaxing. This is because calcium constricts muscles and magnesium helps them relax so a deficiency in iron can be the cause of your child’s sleep issues. Regularly taking a multivitamin can really help your children get the balance in nutrition they need and be able to fall asleep, and stay asleep.

3. Blackout Curtains

Children are much more sensitive to the light than you might think. If your mini blinds are not doing the job, try investing in a blackout curtain. They are very effective in keeping out all exterior light, thus creating a great environment for quick and deep sleeping. Even better, these are not expensive or unappealing to the eye. You can buy a blackout curtain in numerous colors and for under $40!

4. Lavender Oil

Lavender is a great natural remedy to treat many problems. With regards to difficulty sleeping, it has proven to be very versatile and can be used very effectively to get your child snoozing in no time. The best way to utilize lavender oil is to diffuse it in the room just before your child goes to bed. A few drops will do the trick and you’ll be amazed how well it works. If mixed with carrier oil, you can apply it to your child’s feet before bedtime for a nice relaxing, soothing feeling too.

5. Routine

Remember – no matter how many hacks you try out, if your child does not have a consistent and calming bedtime routine, there will always be trouble when bedtime rolls around. This means that you don’t have to try out some new fancy trick every night. Taking a bath, having a warm glass of milk, or spending some time with dad before bed can all be an effective central part of your nightly routine. Also, try to stay away from bright screens and loud activities before bed like watching TV or playing on a smartphone. These activities can prevent the release of melatonin and ultimately delay your child falling asleep. But remember – whatever the routine is, make sure it stays consistent.

Hopefully these tips will make bedtime a lot easier and much more enjoyable for you and your child!