How do I slow the rush when my child needs one more story, drink, hug? 

Parenting Perspective 

The classic bedtime request for ‘just one more’ story, drink, or hug is familiar to most parents. While it can feel like a delaying tactic, it is often a child’s way of seeking a little more comfort and connection before the separation of sleep. Rather than rushing or becoming frustrated, a calm approach can balance reassurance with clear boundaries. 

Anticipate and Build Extras into the Routine 

One of the most effective strategies is to expect these requests and build them into the existing routine. By anticipating their needs, you can often pre-empt the delay. 

• Instead of one hug, make two hugs the standard part of the routine and state it clearly. 

• Offer a final sip of water before the story begins, so it is not used as a last-minute request. 

When a child feels their needs are already met, the bedtime routine feels more complete and secure. 

Establish a Clear and Warm Closing Ritual 

Create a predictable and final step that signals the end of the bedtime process. This replaces the endless cycle of ‘one more thing’ with a warm and definitive closure. 

• This could be reciting a specific bedtime dua together every night. 

• It might be a special phrase you always say, such as, ‘I love you. See you in the morning, inshaAllah.’ 

A consistent ritual provides comfort and makes the end of the day feel secure. 

Acknowledge Their Feelings but Hold the Boundary 

It is important to show empathy for your child’s feelings without giving in to endless extensions. Children accept limits more easily when they feel their emotions have been heard. 

• You can say, ‘I know you would love another story, but our reading time for tonight is finished.’ 

• This establishes a firm but gentle boundary that is both loving and clear. 

Respond to Protests with Calm Consistency 

If your child continues to protest, avoid sighing or snapping. Your calm and steady tone is the most reassuring response. 

• You can simply repeat, ‘Bedtime is for resting now. We will have more stories tomorrow.’ 

• When they see that you will not get flustered, the protests will likely shorten over time. Your calm consistency is the key. 

Spiritual Insight 

The act of going to sleep is a daily reminder of Allah’s mercy, as we entrust our souls to Him for the night. By slowing down the bedtime rush and concluding the day with warmth and patience, we can teach our children that daily routines can be both disciplined and peaceful. 

The Virtue of Patience in Moments of Closeness 

Allah teaches us that showing patience with those who are calling upon Him is a virtuous act. This can be extended to our children, who call upon us for comfort. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Kahf (18), Verse 28: 

‘(O my Servant) show restraint upon yourself, (and join with) the company of those people who pray to their Sustainer, morning and evening, desiring that one day they shall meet Him (Allah Almighty); and do not even glance your eyes over those who (live in ignorance, and superficially) desire the luxuries of the worldly life; and do not follow those people, whose hearts are (recklessly) ignorant of Our remembrance, and (do not) follow their whims, and (those) whose daily affairs have become chaotic (with neglect).’ 

This verse reminds us that exercising patience during moments of connection, such as at bedtime, is a form of worship that pleases Allah. 

The Prophetic Example of Gentleness at Home 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that kindness within the family is a sign of divine favour. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 2118, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘When Allah wills good for the people of a household, He introduces kindness among them.’ 

This Hadith encourages us to see small acts of gentleness, like offering a calm and patient response to a child’s bedtime request, as a reflection of Allah’s blessing upon our home.