Kids and Bedtime

What is it with kids and bedtime? I have an 8 year old boy and a 6 year old girl who will do just about anything to avoid going to bed. Let’s face it, they can get ready in the morning or for bedtime in about 5-7 minutes; clothes changed, teeth brushed, beds made (or unmade). But when it comes to bedtime, the whole thing turns into a long, drawn-out ordeal and takes 30 minutes or more.

Last night, my daughter was on a roll. She is the master of stalling. Her best technique is conversation. She will talk about anything and everything to avoid mom and dad leaving the room. Cause once we leave… its lights out and sleepy time. So, she’ll either start a new conversation about something or begin to ask the most pointed and in depth questions of an existing conversation. You would think this little girl was 20 years old.

I finally began to address her as ‘staller.’ “Yes staller, you have a question. That’s nice staller, but its time for bed.” You get the picture. I ended our conversation by telling her, in a very playful way, “I know what you’re doing. And you KNOW I know what you’re doing.” She smiled from ear to ear. We both started laughing so hard. Seriously, I was dyin’! It took everything I had to close the door and leave the room. But at least the ‘laugh’ bought her another minute or two of remaining blissfully awake… what is it with kids and bedtime?