Expecting parents, new parents… consider this your bedtime cheat sheet. A bedtime checklist for babies and kids to keep everyone on track. Save it for yourself or print it out for a grandparent’s guide (and take a night off;)
But first, bath time
This is a cue to even the littlest ones that it’s time to start winding down. Get the warm water running a minute before they get in to warm it up. Add a couple drops of lavender essential oils, bring on the bubbles and throw some relaxing music on in the background and the stage is set. By the time you wrap them up in a hooded organic cotton towel, they’ll be fighting back yawns.
Last call for playtime
Put a towel or a mat down and let babies air dry while they get the wiggles out. Set out an activity gym like this one while you lotion baby’s skin. For older kids - a quick dance party does the trick.
PJ mode
Let the older ones pick out their own pajamas. We love it when siblings go for a matching pjs. For the littlest ones, PurelySoft™ is our dreamiest pajama option. Soft and silky, PurelySoft pajamas are made from feather-soft fabric that’s unbelievably stretchy for a snuggle-worthy fit you’ll wish you had on yourself.
Brush teeth
Give toddlers time to brush their teeth on their own get a quick brushing from you, too. This is also the time for one last sip of water and one last potty break before bed. Baby gets one last feed if it’s on schedule. Swaddle or slip them into a wearable blanket first before they get too sleepy.
Pick a book & dim the lights
Don’t forget to remind sitters and grandparents to close the curtains, turn on the humidifier and get the sound machine going before storytime. Tuck in the big kids. Bedtime story – but ready it slooowly. If your minis are having trouble nodding off, try a longer book with no pictures as a second act. A classic story with bigger words and less to look at will have them dreaming before you say, “the end.”
Goodnight kisses & lights out
And cheers to you. Soak in the peace & quiet until tomorrow.
PRO TIP: It helps if babies & kids are actually sleepy at bedtime! Set yourself up for success. Cap naps at two hours max and avoid late naps at all cost – you’ll thank us later.
