Our Dream Bedtime Routine
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 as a guide for grandparents (and take a night off;
But first, bath time
This is a cue for even the youngest kids that it’s time to start winding down. Let the warm water run a minute before they come in. Add a few drops of lavender essential oil, bring on the bubbles, put on some relaxing music in the background, and the stage is set. They’ll yawn as you wrap them in a hooded organic cotton towel.
Final call for playtime
Put down a towel or mat and let baby air dry while they wiggle around. Set up an activity gym like this one while you toner your baby’s skin. For older kids – a quick dance party will do.
Brushing teeth
Give toddlers time to brush their own teeth and get a quick brush from you, too. This is also the time for a final sip of water and a final potty break before bed. If things go as planned, baby will get a final feeding. Swaddle them or put them in a wearable blanket before they get too sleepy.
Pick a book, dim the lights
Don’t forget to remind babysitters and grandparents to draw the curtains, turn on the humidifier and start the sound machine before storytime. Tuck in the big kids. Bedtime story – but prepare for a slow one. If your mini-miss has trouble dozing off, try a long book without pictures as a second act. A classic story with bigger words and fewer words will have them dreaming before you can say “over.”
Goodnight kisses and lights out
Cheers to you. Soak in peace and quiet until tomorrow.
Pro tip: It helps if babies and kids are really sleepy at bedtime! Set yourself up for success. Limit naps to a maximum of two hours, and avoid late nights at all costs – you’ll thank us later.
