Toddlers’ sleep schedules can be chaotic at times and always seem like an everyday battle; establishing a healthy sleeping routine is not an easy task for parents and caregivers and therefore consistency and discipline is key for toddlers to master bedtime routines. Here are a handful of essential steps that will ease the hassle;
● Be consistent
It is simple! Follow the same routine every night and see how effective it will be. Consistency not only makes your baby master or memorize his bedtime routine in his conscious memory but also subconsciously. When your little champ goes through the steps of his night routines, will automatically make his brain send signals to his body every night at the same time.
● A warm bath.
Always start your toddler’s bedtime routine with a warm bath. Incorporate music and bedtime aromatherapy essential oils into his bath to make his bath time even more relaxing and therapeutic. A warm bath not only scrubs off tidbits but also helps them relax and be fresh, thus making them fall asleep easily. Doing this daily will have your toddler master it and learn that it means bedtime is approaching.
● Bedtime routine songs.
Have a bedtime routine song that you and your toddler can sing. You can come up with a tune from his favorite nursery song and insert bedtime routines like bedtimes, pajamas time, brushing teeth etc.
● Set the mood.
Keep screens off and lights dimmed before bedtime. The lights from screens disrupt your toddler brain from releasing sleep-inducing hormones. You can also set the mood by closing all the windows, blinds, or curtains and ensuring the room is comfortable. Cover them with their favorite blanket when they feel their eyelids getting heavy.
● Dress them appropriately for bed.
Dress your little one in breathable and comfortable pajamas that will not make them wake up in the middle of the night. Also remember to pick their nighties depending on the climate, give them choices by letting them pick pajamas they feel or think is good for them to wear that night, this will make them feel they are also in control.
● Bedtime stories.
Read going-to-bed-themed stories; this is a very essential routine, as it helps get a toddler’s brain and body thinking about going to sleep. Usually, the stories stir conversations about feeling tired, getting cozy in bed, dark outside, etc….this prepares their mind that they should/ about to sleep.
● Baby oil massage.
Sleepy Time baby oil massages are spectacular for toddlers to use before going to bed. These oils contain essential oils like bergamot and chamomile that help to lower stress hormones and activate the parts of the toddler nervous system responsible for rest and relaxation.
Use the essential oils after a night bath routinely, and he will start to get used to the scent and the brain will automatically know that it’s nearly bedtime. Study has shown that essential oils help babies fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, as well as protect their skin.
For both of you to get the rest you need and deserve, as a parent make sure to commit to the routines and hold your ground. Make these routines habitual, plan and stick to them until they pay off. Having a toddler who throws tantrums before bed will require the highest level of patience while implementing these routines, and when they finally adapt, you will be guaranteed a healthy sleeping pattern for you and your toddler.
