A step-by-step bedtime routine for kids

Bedtime can be the best moment of the day or the biggest battle. A steady bedtime routine helps your child go from play to sleep, because the body learns that now it’s time to settle down.

An example bedtime routine

1. Dinner together
2. Quiet play or tidying up
3. Bath or wash-up
4. Pajamas on
5. Brush teeth
6. Read a book
7. Goodnight hug and a kind sentence

Slow things down

The last hour before bed should be calm. Dim the lights, turn off the screens, and choose quiet games.

Same time every night

The body’s inner clock loves regular times. Try to keep bedtime roughly the same, on weekends too.

Reading aloud

A bedtime story is the perfect transition. It brings closeness and calm, and it’s something your child can look forward to.

A kind sentence

End with the same sentence every night: “You are loved. Tomorrow will be a good day.” It can become a cozy ritual your child remembers for a long time.

Pictures help

With a poster that shows your child at every step, your child can see how far they’ve come. It gives them ownership, and there’s less to argue about.

From My Mini Mindset

Want to bring these words into everyday life? Here are materials with your child’s name and a figure that looks like your child:

• Bedtime routine poster with your child’s figure
• Calm cards