Bedtime Routines That Really Work 🌙✨

If bedtime feels like a nightly battle, you are not alone. So many parents tell me, “We’re exhausted, but bedtime just takes forever.” The truth is, babies and toddlers thrive on predictability. A simple, consistent routine helps them know what is coming next and that makes settling so much easier.

The good news is that your routine does not need to be fancy or take an hour. In fact, the best ones are short, sweet, and repeatable.

Why a Routine Matters

A bedtime routine is more than just nice to have. It

• signals to your child’s body that it is time to wind down

• lowers stress and fussiness before sleep

• strengthens your bond through those quiet, connecting moments

💡 Think of it as a gentle bridge between a busy day and a restful night.

What to Include in a Baby’s Bedtime Routine 👶

Here is a simple, effective routine you can try tonight:

1. Bath or gentle wipe down 🛁 (optional, but can be a great and relaxing cue)

2. Fresh diaper and pajamas 👕

3. Feed in a calm, dimly lit space (if age appropriate) 🍼

4. Quiet connection time such as a short story, song, or cuddle 📖

5. Place baby in their sleep space awake but calm 🛌

Pro tip: Keep the routine around 20 to 30 minutes. Babies do not need a long process. Consistency is what matters most.

What About Toddlers? 🧸

Toddlers love to test limits at bedtime. A routine helps reduce power struggles because the steps stay the same each night:

1. Bath or potty 🛀

2. Pajamas and brushing teeth 👕🪥

3. Choose a book (offer 2 to 3 options to avoid endless debates 😉) 📖

4. Song, snuggle, or gentle back rub 🤗

5. Lights out, sleep sack or blanket, goodnight phrase 😴

Having a predictable “goodnight script” such as “Goodnight, I love you, see you in the morning” becomes a powerful cue that sleep time has arrived.

Tips to Make Your Routine Stick

• Keep it consistent. Same order, same timing each night

• Keep it calm. Save tickle fights and play for earlier in the day

• Dim the lights. Start lowering stimulation about 30 minutes before bed

• Turn off screens at least one hour before bedtime. The blue light from TVs, tablets, and phones can make it harder for children to wind down and fall asleep

• Make it yours. Add your family’s special touch such as a song you love, a little massage, or a goodnight prayer

A Gentle Reminder 💜

Even with the best routine, some nights will still be messy. Teething, growth spurts, or just “off days” happen. Do not worry. Your consistency will pay off over time. Think long term, not night to night.

Need extra support?

If you feel like you have tried everything and bedtime is still a struggle, I can help. Together, we can build a gentle, personalized routine that fits your baby and your family. 🌙