A calmer bedtime routine, in four steps
Bath, pyjamas, one book, lights out: why the same four steps every night work better than any trick.
We tried everything with our three: white noise, star projectors, songs on repeat. What finally worked was the most boring thing of all: the same four steps, in the same order, every single night.
1. A warm bath
Warm water, low light, a bubble bath with a calming scent. It is the signal that the day is over.
2. Pyjamas and a massage
A few drops of oil on legs and back. Two minutes, no more.
3. One book
One. Not three. The negotiation is part of the routine, and so is the answer.
4. Lights out, same words
Whatever you say, say it every night. Children find comfort in knowing exactly what comes next.
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