Getting your toddler ready for bed in the same way each night can help ease him through the transition from play time to sleep time. It makes bedtime a more predictable event for your child, so you're met with less resistance and your child falls asleep more easily. While each family needs to decide what activities are part of its nighttime routine, following a basic and calming sequence of events can have your toddler going to bed peacefully and easily, with little or no fighting.
Step 1
Start your bedtime routine at the same time every night. By putting your child to bed at a regular bedtime, you are teaching his internal clock when to start slowing in time for bed. It also can help you have a more predictable schedule for naps throughout the day. Start the bedtime routine up to an hour in advance of your child's actual bedtime so he has plenty of time to calm down.
Step 2
Give your toddler a bath, suggests BabyCenter.com. A bath with warm water is ideal for soothing your toddler to sleep, and it's an excellent way to get him clean, warm and dry after a long day of playing. Use a lavender-scented bubble bath, since lavender oil is meant for relaxation and sleep, says AromaWeb.com. After the bath, dress her in warm and comfortable pajamas.
Step 3
Offer a snack or cup of milk before bed, but not in bed, suggests Parents magazine. Eating and drinking in bed is a choking hazard, and leaving your toddler with a bottle or cup of milk in bed can lead to baby tooth decay, says the American Dental Association. A small snack, like a cheese stick or half of a sandwich and milk can fill your toddler's belly in preparation for a good night's sleep. If your toddler is potty trained, he'll also need one more trip to the bathroom.
Step 4
Read a short story or sing your toddler's favorite song in bed after she's had her snack and used the potty. Some good ideas for books are those that end with the main character going to sleep, so your toddler can see that even the characters in her book are ready for bed. Sing a goodnight song.
Step 5
Give a short toddler massage before you turn off the lights. Just dab a small amount of baby lotion on your hands and rub your toddler's hands, arms and legs in a circular motion. This can help him relax in preparation for sleep. When you're done, leave a night light on, give him a kiss and say goodnight for the night.
Things You'll Need
- Bath bubbles
- Pajamas
- Snack
- Stories
- Baby lotion
