Best Toddler Bedtime Routine That Will Make Your Kid Actually Sleep

Most moms say they have a toddler bedtime routine, like 90% of them. But only about half actually stick to it every night.

The question arises, why aren’t half of the mothers able to follow the nighttime routine for toddlers?

Possible reasons are:

• Moms often face exhaustion due to their busy work schedule.
• Parents are bad at handling the tantrums and demands of their kids.
• The toddler’s daily schedule is changed due to family travel or illness.

Don’t worry if you are facing the same issue. The following bedtime routine will actually help your kids stay in bed for the entire night for a peaceful sleep.

How to Put a Toddler to Bed? Sample Nighttime Schedule For Kids

A solid bedtime routine for toddlers aged 15 months makes them feel relaxed and safe, and actually helps them sleep. Every kid’s different, but most little ones do better with a predictable wind-down.

Here’s a sample schedule, backed by experts and real-life parenting advice, so you can easily train them to sleep on time.

5 Tips to Make Bedtime Easier for Kids With a Night Routine

The core challenge for parents is to calm a toddler mid-meltdown and convince them that sleep isn’t a punishment. These tips will help you build a consistent nighttime routine for your kids.

1. Start Early and Phase Out Screens

Eliminating screens might be a tough step as a parent, especially if your kid is strong-spirited and does not listen to you easily.

The modern parenting hack to minimize screens is to combine a non-screen activity with it. Remove devices from the bedroom, use dim lighting, and integrate white noise machines to create a sleep-friendly atmosphere.

2. Let Them Burn Energy Earlier

Let them play with toy cars, outdoor games or any active play so they become tired at the end of the day and easily sleep at night.

Physical activity enhances sleep quality in kids, but timing is key. Aim for active play 2-3 hours before bedtime to avoid adrenaline spikes.

3. Stay Calm (Even When They Push Back)

Remember that if your toddler throws tantrums or defies your set routine, it’s not personal. That’s how they feel. They do not know how to express their emotions because they feel trapped for the first time. As a mum, you must have patience and try to calm down the stress.

4. Adjust the Routine Gradually—Not Suddenly

You can not impose any routine all at once on anybody, let alone fragile toddlers. So, at first, make them familiar with the night time routine slowly. Include a new step in toddler’s sleep schedule after a few days. 

Talk to them about the change. Educate them on how it can help them feel energized and more excited for the next day.

5. Offer Limited Choices

It is another clever hack to make them feel that they are in control of the toddler bedtime routine. Give them options, but keep them limited.

Wondering how? Here are quick examples.

• Ask, “Do you want the blue pyjamas or the green ones?”
• Pick between two bedtime stories or stuffed animals.

Popular Questions About Toddler Bedtime Routine

1. What is a good bedtime routine for toddlers?

Include calming activities like a bath, brushing teeth, reading a book, and dimming lights. Keep it consistent (20-30 minutes) to signal sleep time.

2. How do I regulate my toddler before bed?

To regulate your toddler before sleep, limit screens, offer quiet play or stories, and maintain a predictable schedule. Dim lights and lower stimulation 1-2 hours before bed.

3. What to do when a 2-year-old fights bedtime?

Stay calm, set clear boundaries, and offer limited choices. Avoid engaging in prolonged negotiations.

4. How to sleep train a toddler?

Use gradual methods like fading (reducing parental presence) or check-ins to sleep train a toddler. Ensure that you provide consistency, comfort objects, and a soothing environment.

5. Is 7 PM too early for toddler bedtime?

No, if they wake naturally around 6-7 AM and nap properly. Adjust if naps run long or mornings start later than 7 AM.