Explore peaceful bedtime activities to make your evening routine with kids easier. Discover ways to connect with your child at the end of the day that encourage relaxation and a good night’s sleep, all while avoiding struggles.
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Cozy pajamas with tiny toes peeking out, bedtime stories of adventure, and snuggling under warm blankets sound delightful, don’t they? So, why does bedtime often feel more like a nightmare than a fairy tale?
By the time 7:30 PM rolls around, I’m exhausted from a day filled with zipping up snow pants, cleaning the kitchen again, and giving piggyback rides to kids that never seem to get lighter. And then comes the bedtime routine—the final hurdle before I can enjoy a few hours of peace and quiet.
I find myself mentally repeating, “I think I can, I think I can,” just like the Little Engine That Could. But truthfully, I struggle without resorting to yelling, nagging, and losing my patience. After investing so much energy into making the day great for my family, ending on a negative note feels disheartening. I remember that the last interactions before bed linger with my children, affecting their night and possibly the next day. Plus, bedtime offers a golden opportunity to bond with them. The problem is… they just don’t listen.
When I considered why bedtime is so stressful, it became clear: I’m not the only tired one. Kids, after a day full of learning and playing, are also worn out. Piling on more instructions becomes overwhelming for them. They probably feel like I do when trying to tear myself from a good book at the end of the night. Who wants to leave that comfort and relaxation?
Though I understand, I also know that adequate sleep is crucial for a child’s behavior and mood. So, how do I get them engaged in our nighttime routine with respect and understanding? More importantly, how do I end the night filled with positivity instead of frustration?
A strong connection is the best motivator for kids to cooperate. It’s important to remember that bedtime can cause anxiety in them as it marks the transition into the longest separation from parents. A busy day with little time for bonding might leave this need unmet, increasing their stress.
Playing is a significant stress reliever and communication mode for children. Introducing play in the bedtime routine can spark joy and creativity, leading to a calm evening. So, it’s time to drop the strict orders and embrace fun, creativity, and connection.
Here are some enjoyable bedtime activities to help ease the process, even on your most creatively challenged evenings:
1. Choose each other’s pajamas and dress up together.
2. Hold a family ‘tooth brushing party’ with music and dancing.
3. Share five things you love about your child.
4. Invent a bedtime story featuring family members as characters.
5. Wheelbarrow walk through the bedtime routine.
6. Use ‘Simon Says’ during the routine.
7. Enforce a ‘no talking, only singing’ rule.
8. Read stories in silly voices.
9. Make up knock-knock jokes to share.
10. Communicate only with gestures and hand signals.
11. Pick the most unusual pajamas.
12. Try to keep a straight face for the most serious bedtime ever.
13. Use the Bedtime Adventure Challenge Book for a fun bedtime bonding activity.
14. Walk backward everywhere during bedtime.
15. Try putting on your child’s pajamas while they pretend to be asleep.
16. Swap roles and be each other.
17. Play a stuffed animal counting game to see how many fit on the bed.
18. Mimic different animals throughout the routine.
19. Pretend to be your favorite historical character.
20. Create a ‘YouTube’ video demonstrating a fun bedtime routine.
Here’s a sneak peek at more calming strategies:
– Play your favorite songs together before bed.
– Take turns brushing each other’s teeth.
– Race to see who finishes the routine first.
– Plan breakfast together for the next morning.
– Put on a shadow puppet show.
– Try guided meditation or simple yoga poses.
– Use calming essential oils like lavender.
– Share stories of the day’s highs and lows.
– Create a human taco with cozy blankets.
By addressing your child’s needs for connection and play during bedtime, you can transform bedtime into a peaceful part of the day. Plus, you’ll send your children off to sleep feeling loved and connected.
A happy child tucked in with a fulfilled heart? That’s a bedtime win for everyone.
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About Angela Pruess, LMFT:
Hello, I’m Angela, a dedicated mental health professional, parenting coach, and mom. I’m passionate about every child’s right to a happy and successful life through emotional health. Learn more about my work and the Parents with Confidence approach.
