Need quick clarification on something please

[Sam-n-Max's Mommy]

This is probably a very silly question, but when we talk about having a 7pm or 7:30 BT (both on the boards and for example in BWSAYP) -- let's use a 7:30 BT as an example -- do we mean in the crib at 7:30 or goal to be asleep by 7:30? I know this probably just seems like semantics, but I'd like to know! Thanks!

[Tweakster]

Most of us folks who offer advice or talk about bedtime mean asleep by...but then again, sometimes it depends on the age of your LO.  Some LOs over 2 (and some even younger) really just need unwinding time with books, or chatter, or whatever so often that bedtime can mean in the room with lights out.  Usually you build in some time to your bedtime BUT not enough to be putting them down too UT.  Does that make any sense lol?  I am sure someone will come along and say it better than me!

[Sam-n-Max's Mommy]

That makes total sense, thanks! I have been building some time in so I'm not putting him down at the time I want him asleep.  Just wanted to make sure I have been interpreting everyone's advice correctly.  Thanks again!!

[~Sara~]

Wendy, you said it just fine, silly!

Nicole, when DS was younger, BT at X:XX meant asleep by then.  Now that he's older and doesn't get OT so easily, it's more flexible and depending on the day we've had, it can mean when he's laid down or when we want him to be asleep.  Temperament plays a lot into this as well, as does how easily your LO handles a OT/OS if they're not asleep by a certain time.

When giving advice on the boards, however, I will say bedtime in the context of "Needs to be asleep," and let the parents figure out what needs to happen prior to make it happen (offering advice there, too, if need be).

[Sam-n-Max's Mommy]

Thanks, Sara!