--- title: Toddler Bedtime Routine description: Discover steps to create a soothing bedtime routine for toddlers, enhancing sleep quality and security. image: https://www.mellow.kids/hubfs/11062b_d07cb2cf506c403097e034f3b4722913~mv2.webp --- [Skip to content](https://www.mellow.kids/blog/toddler-bedtime-routine#main-content) [![Mellow Kids](https://www.mellow.kids/hubfs/logo-white-2.svg)](https://www.mellow.kids) - [Home](https://www.mellow.kids) - [Resources](https://www.mellow.kids/resources) - [Blog](https://www.mellow.kids/blog) - [The Team](https://www.mellow.kids/about) - [Contact Us](https://www.mellow.kids/contact-us) Open main navigation Close main navigation - [Home](https://www.mellow.kids) - [Resources](https://www.mellow.kids/resources) - [Blog](https://www.mellow.kids/blog) - [The Team](https://www.mellow.kids/about) - [Contact Us](https://www.mellow.kids/contact-us) - [Personal Sleep Support](https://www.mellow.kids/personal-sleep-support) [Personal Sleep Support](https://www.mellow.kids/personal-sleep-support) [All posts](https://www.mellow.kids/blog/all) [Blog](https://www.mellow.kids/blog/all) / [Sleep by Age](https://www.mellow.kids/topics/sleep-by-age) / Toddler Bedtime Routine # Toddler Bedtime Routine 1 minute read  ·  Updated July 22, 2026 ![](https://www.mellow.kids/hubfs/11062b_d07cb2cf506c403097e034f3b4722913~mv2.webp) ![Picture of Daiany Nascimento](https://www.mellow.kids/hs-fs/hubfs/Daiany%201-1.jpg?width=50&height=50&name=Daiany%201-1.jpg) Written By Daiany Nascimento Certified Pediatric Sleep Specialist ![Picture of Mary Ann Nero](https://www.mellow.kids/hs-fs/hubfs/Mary%20Ann-1.png?width=50&height=50&name=Mary%20Ann-1.png) Medically Reviewed By Mary Ann Nero Clinical Advisor | Registered Nurse (Pediatrics & Obstetrics) In this article Establishing a bedtime routine for your toddler can aid in creating a sense of security and predictability, which can significantly improve sleep quality. Here's a guide to help you create an effective bedtime routine for your toddler:  **Step 1: Choose a Consistent Bedtime** - Select a bedtime that allows your toddler to get the recommended 11 to 14 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period (including naps). A typical bedtime ranges from 7:00 to 8:00 PM. ### Step 2: Pre-Bedtime Wind-down  - Begin the wind-down process about 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. This could include quiet activities like reading books, puzzles, or gentle play. ### Step 3: Establish a Bedtime Routine  Creating a predictable sequence of events can signal to your toddler that it's time for bed. Here's a sample routine: 1. **Pyjamas:** Getting into pyjamas is a clear signal that bedtime is approaching. 2. **Tooth Brushing:** Incorporate tooth brushing into the routine to promote dental health. 3. **Bedroom Time:** Move into the bedroom and keep the lighting dim to signal that it's nighttime. 4. **Storytime or Quiet Play:** Reading a book together or some quiet play can be a soothing prelude to sleep. 5. **Bedtime Song or Lullaby:** Singing a familiar song can provide comfort and a sense of routine. ### Step 4: Saying Goodnight - After a final hug, kiss, and saying goodnight, leave the to om. Make this part of the routine predictable, loving, and brief. ### Step 5: Remain Consistent - Consistency is key. Sticking to the routine, even on weekends, help reinforce the sleep schedule. But life also happens, and there are days when the routine can change a little to accommodate other activities. You can skip the bath, read a shorter book, or have some cuddles. ### Step 6: Addressing Night Waking or Issues - If your toddler wakes up during the night, keep the interaction brief and soothing, reminding them that it's time to sleep. ### Step 7: Make Adjustments as Necessary - If you find that parts of the routine aren't working, or your toddler's sleep needs change, be willing to make necessary adjustments. ### Step 8: Bedtime Routine Chart A bedtime routine chart will work as a visual reminder that helps make bedtime fun and predictable. And it also helps reinforce loving boundaries and expectations! Here are [some examples](https://www.pinterest.de/search/pins/?rs=ac&len=2&q=bedtime%20routine%20chart%20toddler&eq=bedtime%20routine%20ch&etslf=7793).   Every toddler is unique, so what works well for one child might not work for another. It may take some time and adjustment to find what works best for your toddler and your family. ## Related posts [![Baby Crying](https://www.mellow.kids/hubfs/3927-1.jpg)](https://www.mellow.kids/blog/how-does-responding-immediately-to-babys-cries-affect-sleep) [Sleep by Age](https://www.mellow.kids/topics/sleep-by-age) ### [How does responding immediately to a baby’s cries affect sleep and emotional development?](https://www.mellow.kids/blog/how-does-responding-immediately-to-babys-cries-affect-sleep) How parents respond to their baby’s cries can have a significant impact on their baby’s ... 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[See all Sleep by Age articles](https://www.mellow.kids/topics/sleep-by-age) Share: [facebook-f icon](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https://www.mellow.kids/blog/toddler-bedtime-routine) [linkedin-in icon](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.mellow.kids/blog/toddler-bedtime-routine) [twitter icon](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://www.mellow.kids/blog/toddler-bedtime-routine) [pinterest-p icon](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/link/?url=https://www.mellow.kids/blog/toddler-bedtime-routine) [envelope icon](mailto:?body=https://www.mellow.kids/blog/toddler-bedtime-routine) Our articles are written and medically reviewed by qualified specialists, but they're for informational purposes only and don't replace professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician with any questions about your child's health, sleep, or development. 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