For the Nightly Bedtime Fight

Four lines you can say out loud tonight. Word for word. Free to save.

What to say

1. Lights out in five minutes. One book, then bed.

2. Fighting me is easier than lying there in the dark.

3. Pajamas, teeth, one book, same order every night, and I do it right next to you.

4. You pick the book. I turn off the light when it’s over.

When to use it

This is for the moment it actually goes wrong — not the calm version you rehearse in the car. Pick one line. Say it once. Then stop talking and wait three seconds. If they push back, repeat the same line, not a new one. Say the same thing for five nights before you decide it doesn't work.