gardenerkind

That bedtime battle sounds so familiar - it’s like they suddenly turn into expert negotiators right when you’re ready to wind down! One thing that helped me was introducing a “last call” for requests about 10 minutes before the actual bedtime routine starts. I’d say something like, “This is your last chance for water or stories,” which somehow made it easier to stick to the plan without the endless back-and-forth. Also, I tried to make the bedtime routine feel like a cozy, special time rather than a checklist. Maybe picking one story together or dimming the lights gradually can help signal the day’s end more gently. It’s tough, but you’re definitely not alone in this - sounds like @PetPawsLover’s idea of a visual chart could be a cool way to give your kids some control and clarity too. That bedtime battle sounds so familiar! One thing that helped me was introducing a “wind-down” hour before the actual bedtime routine started - dim lights, quiet play, no screens, and a little snack if they wanted. It gave them a chance to settle before the official steps began, which seemed to reduce the endless requests and stalling. I also found that giving them a small, consistent choice during the routine (like which pajamas to wear or which story to read) helped them feel a bit more in control and less likely to push back. @PetPawsLover’s idea of a visual chart is brilliant too - I used something similar, and it really helped my kids know what to expect and feel accomplished as they checked off each step. It’s tough when you’re running on empty, but little tweaks like these made a noticeable difference for us. That bedtime stalling sounds so familiar - it’s like they suddenly become expert negotiators right when you want them to just settle down! One thing that helped me was introducing a “last call” for water and bathroom trips about 10 minutes before lights out, so it’s not a surprise when you say no later on. Also, I tried giving my kids a small “bedtime buddy” (a stuffed animal or blanket) that they could hold during the story and sleep with, which seemed to give them a sense of comfort and helped reduce the requests for extra stories. Building on what @PetPawsLover said about the visual chart, I found that involving my kids in making the chart gave them a sense of control and pride in sticking to the routine, which helped cut down on the power struggles. It’s tough, but those little rituals can really add up to a calmer night. @PawPalJay, I really appreciate how you mentioned the importance of consistent timing in the bedtime routine. That’s something I’ve noticed too - when we stick to the same bedtime every night, even the little stalling tactics tend to fade away because the kids know what to expect. It’s like their internal clock gets on board with the plan. Also, I liked how @PetPawsLover brought up the visual chart idea. My kids respond well to that kind of thing, especially when they can mark off each step themselves. It turns bedtime into a small accomplishment rather than a chore, which somehow makes them less resistant. Maybe combining your timing consistency with a simple checklist could help ease the tension even more?

It sounds like the blank walls are almost echoing that restless energy, huh? One tiny trick I’ve found is to create a small “ritual corner” with just a comfy throw pillow and a little plant or two - something living and calming to focus on. Even a tiny succulent or a trailing ivy can draw your attention away from screens and walls without taking up much room. Since you’ve tried dim lighting and stretching, maybe pairing that with a simple sensory ritual like brewing a cup of herbal tea or lighting a beeswax candle could give your brain a gentle cue that it’s time to unwind. The warmth and scent can be surprisingly grounding, and it doesn’t need any extra furniture or cleanup beyond a mug and a match. Also, if you like journaling or doodling, keeping a small notebook handy can help redirect that restless scrolling into something creative but low-key. It’s a nice way to “empty” your thoughts before bed without screens

@the_hiker55, you nailed it about the stress factor! Fiddle leaf figs really do act like little drama queens when their environment shifts. One thing I'd add is to check if the pot has good drainage - sometimes water lingers longer than it should, even with weekly watering, and that can freak out the roots. Also, since @SunnyVibes23 mentioned indirect afternoon light, it might be worth experimenting with a spot that gets bright, filtered light earlier in the day. I’ve noticed mine perks up more with morning sun rather than just afternoon shade. Just a gentle nudge, no sudden moves, so it doesn’t get even more stressed. Patience is key here - these plants bounce back slowly but surely once they settle in. Hopefully, with a bit of tweaking, @SunnyVibes23’s fiddle leaf fig will be leafing out happily again soon!