Toddler Bedtime Routine | How to avoid the battles & enjoy bedtime with your child
Consistency and routines are going to be the KEY to having a successful bedtime routine with your toddler. The number one thing you want to do is give your child the power to make as many bedtime choices as possible.
But first, there are some things you need to make sure you have set up in your child’s room to ensure success:
1. Toddler Clock- Any brand is perfectly fine. The top 2 clocks that I’ve seen being used are:
The Hatch Baby Rest- https://amzn.to/32ip5gg
The My Tot Clock- https://amzn.to/3slWukD
White Noise Machine- https://amzn.to/3mPJNgN
BlackoutEZ Window Covers- http://www.blackoutez.com/227.html
2. Bedtime Routine Cards- Having a visual routine system will help your child see what comes next and what is expected of them as they transition from daytime to nighttime.
3. Reward Chart/Reward System: You want to have a reward system to help your child be encouraged to comply with the sleep time expectations
Bedtime Routine:
1. Bath- Many parents like to bathe their child before bed. Washing off the mess of the day is usually useful so that your child is squeaky clean before bed.
2. Lotion Massage & Pajamas- Massage is a great calming technique that will help get your child’s body ready for bed and triggering the production of melatonin. Let your child choose their pajamas. Giving them the choice will give them power and responsibility for their own choices.
3. Brush Hair, Brush Teeth, Clean Out Ears, etc.- Make this fun and engaging. Let your child decide if they want to do these things first (by themselves) or if they want you to do it first and they will do it after.
4. Read Books- Let your child choose which books they want to read. Give your child a set number of how many books you’re willing to read. Sit with your child and take time to explore the pages in the books.
5. Cuddle Time!- I love cuddle time at bedtime. Kids get nice and relaxed and start talking about their day and what they want to do tomorrow. This is a great bonding time where there are no distractions and it’s just you and your child!
Now it’s time for you to leave the room and let your child soothe themselves to sleep.
Bedtime Routine Cards- https://slumberandbloom.com/product/bedtime-routine-cards/
