Creating Smooth Bedtime Routines
Is bedtime becoming more of a nightmare than a relaxing way to end the day? Does Bitsy fight going to bed, and do you spend hours trying to rock, lull, or soothe them to sleep? We’ve got news for you, tired Mama: it doesn’t have to be that way! Bedtime can be a safe space for both you and your little one to relax, get ready for bed, and enjoy ending the day together! All it takes is a little planning, some routine-setting, and consistency!
Creating a Routine
This is where so many parents struggle — they’re not sure where to start or what their little ones need when creating a routine. But the answer is in the things you and Bitsy love doing most before bed!
Consistency is key. We can’t stress this one enough — keeping bedtime consistent is the only way to create a successful routine. Pick a bedtime and stick to it! No matter what else is going on, no matter how late they want to stay up, bedtime is bedtime.
Make it fun. Add things to the bedtime routine that Bitsy will enjoy! This can be goodnight songs, bedtime stories, a new pair of fun pajamas, or their favorite stuffed animals! Anything that makes your little one feel happy, safe, and loved is the ideal thing to incorporate into bedtime. Not only that, it will help them start to look forward to the routine!
No surprises. This is a big one, too — once you’ve chosen your routine, don’t add or take anything away. Again, consistency is key. Additionally, keeping the routine constantly the same will let them learn the routine and then hold themselves accountable for making sure it happens! Fun ways to help them stay on top of their own bedtime routine is to put them on a chart, dry erase board, or in a book — they’ll love keeping Mommy and Daddy in line!
Example Bedtime Routine
Now that you’ve got the tips to make a routine and keep it successful, here’s an example of a bedtime routine that’s worked for a few of our Mamas here at Bitsy Boxes!
- Bathtime: This is a great way to gear up for bed — you can get any last minute energy or giggles out through a fun bathtime game. Using a lightly scented lavender body wash for your Bitsy can also help get them ready for bed.
- Put on pajamas: This helps get your little one into the mindset that it’s time to start getting ready for bed! This is a great time to pick out their favorite or brand new pajamas, especially if you’re just getting started with the routine.
- Brushing teeth: Keeping these actionable items in the routine helps little ones mentally prepare for bedtime, without actually having to climb in bed just yet.
- Bedtime! : At this time, you and Bitsy should head to their bedroom and climb in to finish the last parts of your routine.
- Read one bedtime story: Here’s the fun stuff! Whether you read the same book every night or switch it up to expand Bitsy’s library, this can be a really fun activity for both of you.
- Sing one song: Pick a goodnight song you can both sing together or a lullaby you can sing to Bitsy, and add that to the routine. This helps their brains get ready for sleep, believe it or not!
- Hugs and kisses: Last, but definitely not least, are the hugs, kisses, and I love you’s! This helps most little ones feel safe, secure, and loved as they get ready to drift off to dreamland.
And there you have it, Mama! A crash course in making bedtime a little easier for everyone! As we mentioned, setting your routine, practicing it, and sticking to it will have your house running like a well-oiled machine every night!