Final answer:
To prepare a child for bedtime, establish a consistent sleep schedule and routine, create a calm environment, and follow good sleep hygiene practices. Additionally, ensure a safe sleep environment by following recommendations to prevent SIDS.
Step-by-step explanation:
To prepare a child for bedtime, it is important to establish a consistent sleep schedule and routine. Stick to a regular bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends. Avoid stimulating activities and bright lights before bed, and create a calm and relaxing environment.
Encourage good sleep hygiene by avoiding naps, keeping the bedroom temperature cool, and avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and heavy meals before bed. Additionally, it is important to ensure a safe sleep environment by following recommendations to prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) such as placing infants on their backs to sleep and removing suffocation hazards from cribs.