Sunday Sleep Dilemma

Q: After jammies, teeth-brushing, a story and a hug, my 2.5 year old goes to bed pretty easily. But my kids recently spent two nights with my in-laws (over the holidays) who got the kids to sleep by sitting next to them and rubbing their backs. Now that we're back home, my 2.5 year old is asking for me to cuddle in bed with him and give him backrubs. How do I break this new habit he's picked up from staying with the grandparents?

A: That is cute and sweet in many ways. I actually have fond memories of having my back rubbed by my mom. If you don't want this to be part of your sleep routine then don't make it part of it. Tell him that this was part of what grandma did with you before bed, but at your house you do x,y, and z before bedtime. If you want it to be more visual for him, make a list with pictures of your bedtime routine and then he can see what happens every night at your house (brush teeth, PJs, story). If you like the idea then maybe rub his back as you sing a song or say a prayer with him before the lights go out.