Download the article: Book Review:The 7 O'Clock Bedtime
"Early to bed, early to rise, makes a child healthy, playful, and wise." Thus reads the cover of The 7 O'Clock Bedtime by Inda Schaenen. As a Waldorf early childhood teacher, I have heard so many parents bemoan the difficulties of getting their children to bed at night, and I have observed so many tired, cranky children who seem obviously sleep-deprived. In this sensible, funny, poignant, and, above all, helpful book, Inda Schaenen goes beyond anecdotal evidence to present studies that document the sleep requirements of infants and children, and also the results of inadequate sleep. Ms. Schaenen also describes convincingly and enticingly the benefits to the adults of the household when children are put to bed early in the evening. Many parents of toddlers and young children can scarcely remember what it was like to sit down with a good book in the evening, early enough to read without immediately falling asleep; to have peace and quiet in a tidy house; to have time for adult conversation. Yet this author claims to have these opportunities every single night! What is her secret?
Ms. Schaenen is uncompromising in giving priority to her children's need for enough sleep, so that they can face the world each morning with strength, calm, and energy for the day ahead, and go to sleep peacefully each night before they fall apart physically and emotionally. This priority dictates the way she organizes the daily life of the family, and affects every part of the day. In a wonderfully undogmatic and practical way, she makes suggestions that can be adapted to a particular family's situation. She touches on almost every aspect of family life-working parents, children of different ages, special occasions, naptime, snacks, homework, after-school activities (keep them to a minimum!), outdoor play, story time, and meals. Through sharing her own trials and learning experiences as a new parent, Ms. Schaenen helps the reader to see that changes can be made even if a difficult pattern has already been established. She is encouraging without promising the impossible; even she, it seems, can have a bad day now and then!
The approach offered by this author is very much congruent with the ideals of Waldorf early childhood education. She advocates a daily rhythm which is attuned to the physical, social, and emotional needs of the child, and points out the essential role of adult responsibility in setting priorities and ensuring, lovingly and firmly, that the rhythm is followed and expectations are met.
Unfortunately, the book's cover design leaves something to be desired; nevertheless I recommend the book with wholehearted enthusiasm. The only part I cannot vouch for in the same spirit is the section of recipes for quick family dinners. I tried out only one of them, but I am afraid it was not a big hit at our house. Other than that, I can only say: do read this book yourselves and make it known to parents of young children. It is most worthwhile.