Bedtime Routine to Suit 4 Different Ages

[hedwig06]

I wondered what everyone thought was the "right" time for bed for 4 different aged children.

I have a 13 year old, 9 year old, 7 year old and a 2 year old.

We have never put sent them to bed at different times.

At the moment they all go up about 7.30-8pm, with the 3 older ones able to read, watch a film, whatever they want really as long as they are quiet until 9pm for the 9&7 year olds and 11pm for the 13 year old

But I realise the 13 year old is getting too old for this routine although shes not complaining, as she's a book fiend and loves the quiet time to read in her own room, she then tends to watch tv later on.

My 9 year old DD, is a real pain, moaning about the bedtime routine as it is - wanting to stay up past 9pm with us, but it's the only time me & DH have together with 4 kids!!!

I know for a fact they would be running round sscreaming and shouting, fighting and arguing, if I let them stay up longer, plus it would really upset the 2 year old as he idolises his Brother, (7year old), to go up earlier on his own.

Any ideas/opinions greatfully recieved, .

[Sazisi]

I think what you're already doing sounds perfect.
9pm is plenty late for a 9 year-old; they try it on at that age; pull rank. you know best

I've got 3 (10, 4 and 2) and we put the 2 youngest to bed at 8, then DD1 straight after but let her read/listen to a story cd until we deem it too late

[hedwig06]

Sazisi,

Thanks for replying, DD, (9), is pushing just lately, answering back, slamming doors, teary all the time if she doesn't get her own way - and telling tales, , I'm suprised she has time to play or eat - all she does is tell me tales!!

I thought the bedtime routine was ok, but I suppose I was having a wobble,

It will have to change soon I suppose when DD1, (13), starts going out and about more, but she is quite far from her school, and of course her friends, so she doesn't tend to go out in the evening that much at the moment.

Thanks.