Bedtime & Nap time Routines
Bedtime routines are key to help us settle into good rest… no matter our age! Whether your an adult, a newborn baby, or somewhere in between, certain rhythms and routines can either HELP you get good rest OR they can truly HURT your process of getting good rest. So, how do we set up a good bedtime and naptime routine for baby? What does a good routine look like? And at what age do you use it?
First: who needs a bedtime routine?
Kids of all ages benefit from a bedtime routine! (Adults do to!) Routines signal to baby that its time for sleep and you can even use the same routine for naps and bedtime.
Second: What does a good routine look like?
A good routine is SHORT, SIMPLE, and EASILY REPEATABLE. We want this routine to be able to be done in any location and by any caregiver so that it can be the constant amongst change that helps signal sleep to your little one. This can be as basic as changing the diaper, putting on the sleep sack or swaddle, and laying them down in the crib.
Third: How do you implement a good routine?
For younger babies, just make a plan for your short and simple routine and then implement it for all times of sleep! For the toddler aged kiddos and older, talking to them about the plan and using a routine chart or routine cards as a visual aid can be very helpful! You can even practice the routine at a different time to help them know what to expect. We have our own routine cards you can purchase and download HERE!
A note for babies: around 8-10 weeks I recommend moving towards laying baby down awake so that they can put themselves to sleep independently. If this is not something your little one is doing and you’re interested in learning more, reach out about a free discovery call or a one-on-one consultation! The bedtime feed for babies should also come BEFORE the routine so that baby can get in the crib awake and put themselves to sleep on their own. An example baby bedtime routine may look like:
Pajamas + Diaper
Sleep sack or swaddle
Short Song
Lay down awake
Turn off the light and on the sound machine
A note for toddlers: While they still need short, simple and easily repeatable routines, sometimes they need a few more steps. I recommend including any steps you know they like to put in before bedtime to eliminate things they may ask for once getting in bed. Things like a sip of water, a snuggle from mom, or exactly how many books you will read. An example toddler bedtime routine may look like:
Pajamas + Diaper/Pull-Up
Brush teeth
Sip of water
Read 1 book with mom
Kiss goodnight
Turn on the sound machine and off the light
Night night!
We also offer toddler packages that include tips and tricks from our toddler tool-kit if you are needing support with sleep skills beyond the routine! Check out the packages here!
HAPPY SLEEPING!