![](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/USSI-EWB-Videos-Bedtime-560x420.png)
Caring for My Brain: Bedtime Meltdown
When children don’t get enough rest, their big feelings may feel even bigger… and less manageable!
Explain the brain to children: Our brains are inside our heads. Our brains let us learn, listen, talk, imagine, read, play, move, and so much more. Our brains help us feel, name, and talk about our feelings. Our brains can help us calm our bodies down.
Then tell children that when we get enough sleep, we’re taking care of our brains. Watch the video together. From time to time, you can help further explain or emphasize the ideas in the video by saying things like:
- When we don’t get enough rest, big feelings may feel even bigger.
- Just as our bodies and brains need food to give us energy for the day, our bodies and brains need sleep.
- Getting enough sleep and rest makes it easier to learn and play. Giving our bodies rest helps give us the energy to do the things we love… and to feel good while we’re doing them!
- Not getting enough sleep can make us feel grumpy or tired.
- If we need more sleep, we can take a rest during the day. Quiet “resting” time is important!
- You need more sleep than grown-ups because your brain is growing fast.
- Our brains work a little differently when we sleep—one way is that they let us dream!
Later, on your own, consider these tips:
- Set aside special time to relax with your child by playing games that invite restfulness. For example, when playing outside, take a break by lying in the grass to look at shapes in the clouds, or pretend to be a snail, turtle, or plant.
- At bedtime, relax together and take turns sharing the best parts of your day and what you’re most looking forward to tomorrow.
- Invite your child to help make a plan for wind-down bedtime routines like choosing a storybook. Structure helps children feel secure and relaxed, which can lead to better sleep.
![An Animation of Louie and Elmo](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EWB-JUNE-Videos-Teaching-667x500.jpg)
Teaching My Brain
Compassionate self-talk can turn difficult moments around.
![An animation of Big Bird and Granny Bird](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EWB-JUNE-Videos-Comfort-667x500.jpg)
Comfort Container
Help children take a quiet moment alone and soothe themselves.
![An animation of Rosita showing Elmo a drawing of them](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EWB-JUNE-Videos-Friend-667x500.jpg)
A Good Friend to Myself
Self-compassion matters… children should be as kind to themselves as they are to others!
![An animation of Grandma Nell, Gabrielle, and Tamir](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EWB-JUNE-Videos-Gratitude-667x500.jpg)
Gratitude Jar
Highlight the power of gratitude! In tough times, help children pause, notice, and savor the feelings that the good things in our lives bring.
![An animation of Grandma Nell, Gabrielle, and Tamir](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EWB-JUNE-Videos-Hugged-667x500.jpg)
Helped, Heard, or Hugged?
There are so many ways to support a child in distress. You can give children a sense of control by offering three ways you may be able to help… and letting them choose.
![Wes hugging his dad Elijah.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/EWB_MentalHealthResourcesforParents-667x500.png)
Mental Health Resource and Support List for Parents
If you’re concerned about—or considering seeking professional support for—your child’s emotional well-being, there are lots of resources just for you.
![An animation of a child playing with stuffed animals](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/SSIC-Webinar-v2-667x500.jpg)
From Attention to Connection: Responding to Challenging Behavior in Caring Ways
In this webinar, you’ll learn strategies to help you support young children facing emotional challenges.