From Bedtime Battles to Morning Mayhem: Routines That Actually Work
Bedtime and mornings with a toddler can feel like running a never-ending obstacle course in slow motion. But with a little planning and a lot of patience, you can turn these chaotic moments into something… manageable. Let’s tackle the two most challenging parts of the day.
Part 1: Winning the Bedtime Battle
1. Create a Bedtime Routine (and Stick to It)
Toddlers thrive on predictability, even if they fight it. A simple routine signals it’s time to wind down.
The Tip: Bath, pajamas, a short book, and a goodnight song work wonders. Keep it consistent.
The Reality: Your toddler will still ask for “one more story” or a glass of water. Stay strong!
2. Set the Scene for Sleep
A cozy, calming environment helps toddlers settle down.
The Tip: Dim the lights, use white noise, and choose soothing bedtime books.
The Reality: Your toddler will find ways to delay, like asking profound questions about dinosaurs or life itself.
3. Prepare for Negotiations
Bedtime is when toddlers suddenly become master negotiators.
The Tip: Limit choices to avoid debates. “Do you want the blue pajamas or the red ones?”
The Reality: They’ll demand the ones in the laundry. Be ready to improvise.
4. Celebrate Small Wins
Some nights, they’ll go to bed without much fuss. Other nights, you’ll feel like you’ve just climbed Mount Everest. Celebrate both!
The Tip: Acknowledge progress, even if it’s tiny. “Wow, you only asked for two bedtime snacks tonight!”
The Reality: You’ll feel victorious—until you step on a LEGO on your way out.
Part 2: Morning Mayhem
1. Prep the Night Before
Mornings are smoother when you’re not scrambling.
The Tip: Lay out clothes, pack bags, and prepare breakfast options before bed.
The Reality: You’ll still forget something, but it’ll feel less frantic.
2. Wake Up Before Your Toddler (If You Can)
Even 15 minutes of quiet time can make a difference.
The Tip: Use this time to sip coffee, meditate, or mentally prepare for the day.
The Reality: Your toddler will sense you’re awake and join you before you take a single sip.
3. Make It Fun (or at Least Tolerable)
Turn the morning rush into a game to keep your toddler engaged.
The Tip: Race to get dressed or sing a “getting ready” song.
The Reality: You’ll be singing solo when they decide to wear mismatched socks on purpose.
4. Breakfast Doesn’t Have to Be Fancy
Forget gourmet breakfasts—toddlers are happy with simple.
The Tip: Rotate between quick options like toast, yogurt, or cereal. Bonus points for something they can eat on the go.
The Reality: They’ll demand pancakes on the one morning you’re running late.
5. Give Yourself Grace
Not every morning will go as planned, and that’s okay.
The Tip: Take a deep breath and remember that perfection isn’t the goal—getting out the door is.
The Reality: Some mornings, you’ll forget your coffee or show up to work with mismatched shoes. You’re still rocking it.
Final Thoughts
Bedtime and mornings may never be completely smooth, but they don’t have to be a daily disaster. With routines, patience, and a little humor, you’ll find your rhythm. And on the days when everything falls apart? That’s what drive-thru coffee and forgiving colleagues are for.
