The 3 B’s of Bedtime: A Simple Bedtime Routine for Toddlers
After a full day of learning and playing, winding down for bedtime mode isn’t always the easiest thing for toddlers to do. Even when they’re tired, they can come up with plenty of reasons to stay awake, from one more bedtime story, another sip of water, or just a few more minutes with mom and dad.
And while we certainly don't want to rush those extra snuggles and time spent together, a predictable routine can help make this transition a little smoother for everyone, especially young children.
“Routines can make a big difference for younger children.” said Teri Tarvin, Director of Educational Development and Funding. “When they know what to expect, they tend to relax more and focus on just being kids.”
Takeaway: Whether it’s arriving at school in the morning to settling in for naptime, routines can help little ones feel more comfortable, confident, and secure. Bedtime is no different!
Why Bedtime Routines Work, Even When They Feel Impossible
Toddlers and preschoolers are BUSY little humans. Between playground adventures, circle time, imaginative play, big feelings, and all the excitement in between, it can be hard to switch from go-go-go to ready-for-bed. That’s when following a simple routine can make a big difference.
When children begin to recognize the familiar steps of their evening routine, they gain a sense of predictability that can help them feel grounded and secure...and that comforting rhythm can make it easier to drift off to sleep.
Consistency can also help children build independence. As toddlers become familiar with the steps, like brushing their teeth, choosing a book, and getting into bed, they can gradually take on small parts of the routine themselves.
Of course, even the most well-established routine cannot compete with a toddler who suddenly remembers they need one more hug or have a very important question about a bug they saw earlier. There may still be a few bedtime negotiations—and honestly, some of them are impressively persuasive.
A note to parents: This does not mean the routine is not working. It simply means your child is looking for a little comfort and connection at the end of a full day!
Try This Simple Toddler Bedtime Routine
A simple routine is often the easiest one to stick with. The American Academy of Pediatrics’ commonly referenced “3 B’s” approach includes:
Brush: Help your child brush their teeth before bed. Young children can practice brushing on their own, but they will still need an adult to help make sure the job gets done. For children under age 3, use a smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. For children ages 3 to 6, use a pea-sized amount.
Book: Snuggle up and read together for a few minutes. Reading before bed is a sweet opportunity to slow down, connect, and end the day together. And if one book turns into two once in a while, that is okay.
Bed: Aim for a consistent bedtime each night. Waiting until your child is overtired can make it harder for them to settle down, so try to begin the routine before they reach full meltdown territory.
Many families also add a fourth B for bath. And whether your routine is bath, brush, book, bed, or brush, potty, book, cuddle, bed, the most important thing is that it feels manageable and consistent for your family.
Other Small Changes That Can Help
Beyond a few predictable steps, these simple adjustments can help make bedtime smoother for everyone.
Start winding down early
About 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime, begin shifting the household into ‘bedtime mode’. Dim the lights, put away loud toys, and choose quieter activities such as coloring, puzzles, or looking at books together. This helps send a clear message that the busy part of the day is ending.
It can also be helpful to turn off screens at least an hour before bed. Tablets and televisions can make it harder for children to wind down when their bodies and brains are getting ready for sleep.
Let them snuggle with something familiar
After a child’s first birthday, a favorite stuffed animal or small blanket can help bedtime feel a little cozier. These familiar “bedtime buddies” can offer comfort after you leave the room and become another reassuring part of the routine.
Keep the routine realistic
A bedtime routine does not need to be elaborate to work well. In fact, simple is often best—especially on busy weeknights, while traveling, or during a sleepover at Grandma and Grandpa’s house.
Offer small choices
Toddlers are more likely to get on board when they get a little say in the process. Offering a few simple, parent-approved choices can help them feel involved without opening the door to an hour-long pajama debate. For example...
“Would you like to wear the blue pajamas or the green pajamas?”
“Should we read the animal book or the truck book?”
“Do you want your teddy bear or your bunny tonight?”
Keeping the choices small and limited helps children feel included while still keeping bedtime moving in the right direction.
What If Bedtime Doesn’t Go Perfectly?
Some evenings will naturally be harder than others. Travel, illness, exciting events, developmental changes, or simply having a particularly busy day can affect how easily a toddler settles down.
Rather than expecting perfection, focus on returning to the familiar routine as consistently as you can. Children often need time and repetition before a new routine begins to feel comfortable.
A few challenging nights do not mean you have failed or that your routine is not working. Keep the steps calm, clear, and predictable, and give your child time to adjust.
Keep Home and School Routines Connected
Children feel more comfortable when the adults in their world are all on the same page. That’s why we make the little details a priority with each of our Jelly Bean Junction families. When we know what helps a child settle in, what makes them smile, or which stuffed animal is currently the must-have sidekick, we’re able to provide care that feels more personal and supportive.
Open communication between home and school also helps us better meet each child where they are. When children experience consistency, connection, and patience from the grown-ups around them, everyday transitions, from morning drop-off to bedtime, can feel a little easier.
Looking for a nurturing early learning environment where your child can learn, play, explore, and grow in confidence?
Schedule a tour at a Jelly Bean Junction Learning Center to see how we support children and families through every stage of early childhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much sleep does a toddler need?
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that children ages 1 to 2 get 11 to 14 hours of sleep per 24 hours, including naps.
What are some signs my child is overtired?
Signs of drowsiness can include yawning, drooping eyelids, slower movements, less-focused eyes, decreased activity, or becoming quieter than usual. Some children may also become more emotional or energetic when they are overtired.
When should I switch from a crib to a big-kid bed?
Once your toddler is able to climb out of their crib, it may be time to start considering a transition to a toddler bed or big-kid bed. Every child is different, so focus on safety and choose a transition that feels right for your family.
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