Hello Ms. K.
Many other readers may envy your sleep schedule. If the current hours work for your family, then by all means keep that schedule. The main point is to observe if your three year old awakens rested and calm the next day. If she feels tired or grouchy, then perhaps she needs an earlier bedtime. But basically, the best measure is your child's apparent sense of rest and preparedness for the next day.
If you do wish to have her sleep earlier, you can also allow greater physical activity to tire her earlier than usual. Warm milk and honey also have a calming effect on children. But the main motto with children is, 'if it isn’t broken, don't fix it.'
But I will say, by all means remain consistent with bedtimes. As soon as children learn they can stretch the limit, they will. Also, if you and your husband are content with your private time at night, then everyone should be happy. But never sacrifice time alone with your partner to allow a child to stay up later than necessary.
For now, it sounds like you have it all under control. So, if all family members are happy, don’t change a thing.
Good luck,
Dr. Mom
