How to Make Bedtime Easier

Getting little ones down for bed can be one of the more difficult parts of your daily routine. Whatever your nighttime routine may look like now, making it as consistent as possible will help you little one learn to expect when it is time to go to bed. This is one of the best general parenting tips: consistency is key! Little ones and grown-ups alike thrive on a bedtime routine and proper sleep schedule.

Here are some nighttime activities, parenting tips, and other tools that will help you solidify your family’s bedtime routine:

Bathtime

Getting your little one ready for bed includes washing the day away and getting clean, often with a bath. Using soaps with essential oils or scents like lavender for your little one’s bathtime can help calm their senses and help them sleep soundly. It’s also a great place to get the last wiggles and giggles of the day out of your systems as you start to get ready to rest for the night. Playing with bubbles, chatting about the day, and general bonding helps them feel safe and sound as the day comes to an end.

Books

The perfect place to go after the bath is a comfy chair with a favorite book. After pajamas are on and teeth are brushed, you can ask your little one to pick one or two books to read before bed. Pick a comfy spot in their room and read the books together. If you want your little one to get comfy in bed before leaving them to sleep, read one book in a chair and one to them once you have put them in bed. This can help them get settled in their bed and make saying goodnight a little easier.

Sound Machines and Quiet Music

Sound machines are one of the best ways to block outside noise from waking your little one. With rain sounds, ocean waves, white noise…the list is endless! Additionally, playing calming music throughout the evening can help your whole family settle down for the night. Music streaming services have hundreds of playlists including:

Sleep Music for Babies:

Calm Sleep Music for Kids:

We here at Playgarden wish you and your little one a calm bedtime routine and peaceful sleep!