This is a common question we get asked, you have just about sorted child one's bedtime routine and then a baby comes along. A tired child and a tired baby at bedtime is always going to be tricky, but it can be managed with some organisation and a few distraction techniques.
I have some tips and a bedtime routine that can work for both a baby and toddler.
Tips.
- After dinner give your toddler some time to let off some steam, It can be a run around in the garden, a game of hide and seek or some time with their favourite toys.
- Get yourself ready for bedtime, get the pj's, nappies, a distraction toy for the toddler, a couple of books all out and ready to go.
- Give yourself plenty of time for the bedtime routine, the moment you start rushing and getting stressed, toddlers have the sense that they know and will make it even harder for you! It does not matter if it takes you an hour, just enjoy the time and stay relaxed. Remember you can only do your best.
This is a routine that I use, do not feel like you have to do things in this order. Your normal bedtime routine may be absolutely fine.
Bath time- Get ready by getting the towels, shampoo or body wash ready along with your baby's nappies, creams/ lotions and their pj's. After checking the temperature of the bath, put your toddler in first, with your baby laying on the floor or sitting nearby you. Then place the baby in the bath and give them a wash, you can always get the toddler to help you by washing the baby's feet or legs. Remembering to praise them and telling them how helpful they are. Once they are washed, wash your toddler. Once everyone is washed, you can get the baby out of the bath, they do not need long in there. You can then dry the baby off in the bathroom, while still keeping an eye on your toddler in the bath playing. With toddlers running around, I would recommend one of the towels that go over their heads and that way there are no trip hazards.
Bedtime- once the toddler is dressed and you are all in their bedroom, I would get cosy with them both and a couple of books, If you need to feed the baby you can do this at the same time as you are reading the stories. Once you have read the story then if the baby is ready for bed, go and put them down while getting your toddler to pick one last story for you to read just the two of you. If your baby isn't ready to go to bed just yet, then kiss your toddler goodnight.
Remember as much as toddlers can make things crazy, they also love to help. The more you do the same routine every night the more everyone will get used to it and will grow to love the snuggly bedtime stories together.
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