About Jennifer Hamilton
Having learned to write before she could walk (or so goes the story), Jennifer Hamilton has finally found an outlet as our SweetMama Editor. Don’t miss her weekly victories and slip-ups as she raises a son who is almost as obstinate and witty as her; using snuggles, derision and propaganda to survive.
Things You Shouldn't Say Before Bed
mother she wrote: curb the conversation canada
(Feb.01.12)

There are certain things you should never (EVER) say to a child within the few short hours just before they go to bed. Of course, being the terrible mother than I am, I have said all of these to my son.
I beg you: learn from my sleepless nights.
“Monsters only come out when you’re sleeping.”
“Wearing Band-Aids to bed will give you nightmares.”
My father actually told my son this and I’m sure you can guess the results.
“Bad guys usually do things at night because it’s dark out.”
“Don’t think about _ insert bad thing that happened_ anymore.”
Because then they WILL think about it.
“You can call me if you need me.”
They will always find a reason.
“The thing about coyotes is that they won’t come near you unless you’re lying very still.”
“If you go to sleep now the morning will come even sooner.”
This one seriously backfires on parents ― kids are up at 3am because it’s technically “morning”.
“I hope you don’t have any bad dreams.”
I’m sure you can imagine how this works wonders for their sleep.
Tonight, try think about what you’re saying to or within earshot of your children. Unless of course you don’t mind being woken up by a bear-toting child climbing into your bed at 1:12 am, 2:53 am, 3:26 am, 4:39 am and 5:41 am.
Image Credit: CCK_mom
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