Here are some of my tips for establishing a good bedtime routine for your toddler which will help send them off to dreamland, fresh for the next day.
Start with a bath
Warm water always calms my daughter. Generally, it sends signals to a child’s body that it’s time to start winding down.
Warm Beverage
My daughter loves her milk. It soothes her and lets her know it’s time for bed. What’s more, the additional calories in milk help to ensure a child stays well-nourished throughout the night.
Brush their Teeth
Milk is always followed by brushing her teeth, which is arguably her least favourite activity but doing it every night at the same time, encourages consistency & cooperation. “most nights“
Bedtime Story
This is by far our favourite part of the day! My daughter chooses a book, we get into bed, all cozy and tucked in and we read to her.
Keep the lights dim
Low lighting primes a toddler’s body for sleep so I recommend keeping the lighting low from the start of your bedtime routine.
Have a special way to say goodnight
Using a consistent phrase like ‘See you in the morning’ or ‘Goodnight, Sleep tight. gives your child something to look forward to.
Have a consistent bedtime
Studies have shown that routine helps children feel safer, develop life skills and build healthy habits. The same bedtime each night also helps parents feel less stressed & better organised and most importantly gives us some well-deserved time to ourselves.