Hey Bedtime Blues,

This is one of those things where parents really think they’re doing what’s best for you. And in some ways, they’re right. All kinds of studies show how important good sleep habits are for…pretty much everything! Mood, health, grades, etc.

But sometimes we outgrow rules while parents are still holding onto them. I think it’s reasonable for bedtimes to get later as we get older. It sounds like just asking hasn’t worked for you, so let’s try another approach.

First of all, consider HOW you’re asking. Are you genuinely asking, or are you complaining/whining/throwing a fit at the end of the day when they’re exhausted and way more likely to just shut down any complaints?

Whenever you want something from your parents, it’s a good idea to ask for it at a peaceful time, when everyone is well-rested and in a good mood. You want to acknowledge their concerns by telling them you appreciate that they want you to get a good night’s sleep. But, you should also tell them how you feel by pointing out that, as you get older, you have a hard time falling asleep so early. Then, you need to lay out a plan to show them you’re ready for the new bedtime you’re suggesting.

For a later bedtime, here are some things you might propose:

1. A trial run of a later bedtime: If they think a later bedtime means you won’t get to school on time in the morning, you’ll be grumpy during the day, or your schoolwork with suffer, propose a trial run. Maybe you get your bedtime moved back for two weeks, and in that time you show them how you can keep up with your responsibilities. And maybe take it in smaller steps; instead of a whole hour later, suggest a half hour to start.
2. Later bedtime on the weekends: If part of their concern is your ability to do what you need to on schooldays, they might agree to a later bedtime on weekends or school breaks. That would give you a chance to show them you can be responsible with a later bedtime. Just keep in mind that a dramatically later bedtime on weekends can make it hard to get back on schedule during the school week.
3. An in-your-room hour. See if they would agree to a set time when you’ll be in your room, but that you don’t have to go to sleep then. I think parents want us to be winding down by a certain time, but part of it is also that they are exhausted and want to start winding down themselves. So if they know you won’t be asking them for anything or making noise or bickering with your siblings, they might be more likely to let you stay up later.

I hope that helps! And I hope our readers have more ideas for you too.

Have you successfully convinced your parents to allow a later bedtime? Tell us your ideas in the comments!