Preschool in Ypsilanti Discusses 6 Ways to Deal With Tattling at Home

Is your child a tattletale?
 
Are you worried that your child may not outgrow tattling?
 
Tattling is common in most households, so there’s nothing to fret over. The cause is often sibling rivalry if it’s happening at home, so make sure you give each child the attention they deserve. If you can work through the tattling problem with your child, imagine being able to come home from work to a home that’s relaxed, comfortable, and much less stressed. When you and your children get along well, that dream can become a reality!
 

How to Fix a Tattletale Problem:

According to MetroParent Magazine, there are nine things that can help combat your child’s tattling problem, including:

Photo Credit: Aleksandra Kostina, Flickr

1. Consider the motivation behind the tattling
2. Teach the difference between minor and important telling if someone is in danger
3. Acknowledge your child’s feelings
4. Coach your child on problem-solving skills
5. Be a mediator between the children to help figure out a resolution
6. Play the role of supportive consultant rather than punishing or taking sides
7. Maximize listening skills by taking an interest in what your child has to say
8. Use matter-of-fact phrases like “There are only two grownups in this house, and it’s our responsibility to enforce the rules.”
9. Wait it out! Your child should outgrow tattling eventually

If you come home every day your young child can’t wait to tattle on their older sibling, you’re going to be annoyed and frustrated. So, there’s no harm in trying some of these techniques. They could make a huge difference for your peace of mind!
 
If you decide to try some of these things with your child, we’d like to know how they works for you. In addition, are there any other alternatives that already work for you that you’d like to suggest to other parents? Please let us know in the comments! At Little Angels Preschool in Ypsilanti serving Saline, Ann Arbor, Milan, and the surrounding areas, we’re dedicated to our students’ health and well-being.

Why is Getting the Right Amount of Sleep Crucial for Kids?

Is your child having a hard time sleeping at night?

Are there monsters under the bed? In the closet?

Does your child have many extracurricular activities that keep them riled up all night?

According to the National Sleep Foundation, “children ages 5 to 12 need 10 to 11 hours of sleep each night.” When your child is fast asleep, it also allows you a haven of comfort and joyful rest. You’ll feel refreshed and ready for the day’s festivities.

If your child isn’t getting enough sleep, it’s important that you put them on a sleep schedule. Sleep schedules have been known to help a child stick to a routine. According to WebMD, “there is no one right routine for everyone, but in general, your routine should include all the things that your child needs to do before going to sleep, like brushing teeth, washing up, putting on PJs, and having a snack or drink of water. Your child may want to be read to, talk about the day, or told a story. Whatever you choose to do, keep the routine short (30 minutes or less, not including a bath) and be firm about ending it when it's time to sleep.”

According to Parents.com, not getting the recommended amount of sleep per day can lead to problems in school like:

• Attention problems
• Reduced cognitive functioning
• Dulled memory
• Hyperactive behavior
• Emotional outbursts
• Attendance issues

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some healthy right before bedtime snack recommendations?

Healthy snacks before bedtime that we recommend include cereal, fruit, graham crackers, string cheese. Try to avoid large snacks as it can interfere with having to get up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom.

What if my child refuses to go to sleep at a scheduled time?

If your child refuses to go to sleep at a scheduled time, stand firm and set limits. Be clear with your child on the rules you set and stick to them.

Should I stick with a routine even on the weekends?

If you don’t want your child to fall out of a sleep schedule, then it’s better to stick to the schedule that you’ve laid out. If you’re loosey goosy on the weekends, your child may think that they can get away with going to bed later during school nights. Keep your eye on the prize! 

A sleep schedule that your child sticks with in the long term will give you more “me time.” Can you imagine what you could do in an extra hour of child-free time? You could read the novel you’ve always wanted to finish, watch your recorded soap operas, wash your hair in peace, etc. The possibilities are endless! 

At Little Angels Preschool in Ypsilanti, we’re dedicated to our students’ health and well-being. Do you know of a parent looking for a quality daycare in Milan or the surrounding areas? Please encourage them to contact us to schedule a tour of Little Angels Preschool & Daycare.