For the Child Who’s Awake but Won’t Get Up

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

What to say

1. You’re awake. Feet on the floor by seven fifteen.

2. The bed is warm and the floor is cold, and staying put is the easy choice.

3. I put your socks on the floor by the bed and open the door so the hallway light comes in.

4. You can bring the blanket to the kitchen. It just can’t stay on the bed.

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.