The Bedtime ABCs

Getting toddlers and preschoolers to bed is not always the easiest! They are amazingly busy, expert-level procrastinators, don’t like being told to do anything, and just don’t have the same love of getting into bed as we do (when does that develop?).

You don’t just need a relaxing bedtime routine to help your toddler or preschooler easily fall asleep, though those are incredibly helpful! You want to take a look at what is going on before you get started with that routine.

This is where the Bedtime ABCs come in. These are activities that take place before you get started with your bedtime routine. I know this isn’t a time of day when you have the most time. It can often feel rushed, you’re exhausted, and there are a million things you need to do—I get it. But even a few minutes of these activities can make the difference between minimal and maximum toddler procrastination at bedtime.

A = Activity
Some sensory-regulating activities will help regulate your kiddo’s nervous system, making it easier for them to go through their routine and fall asleep.
You can try the following activities: Jumping up and down or bouncing, pushing and pulling, rocking, or swinging. Think full-body movements and using big muscle groups.

B = Bedtime Snack
A snack with sleep-inducing food tops your child up and physically slows them down, which can make getting started with your routine a little easier and help them remain asleep.

C = Cuddle Time
You want to fill up your kiddo’s touch tank. Getting some good quality one-on-one time with you as you near bedtime can make your bedtime routine so much easier to go through. If your toddler or preschooler seeks time with you, they’ll do whatever they can to get it. They don’t care if it’s positive or negative. They need the time with you. Let’s get that before you want them to sleep. Think quality over quantity; undivided attention (even between more than one child) can stop them from playing up at bedtime.

You’ll also want a relaxing bedtime routine to create a dreamy bedtime.
Look at The Bedtime Blueprint. It has everything you need to create a bedtime you and your child look forward to.