Step 1: Set Aside a Generous Block of Time.
Prepare yourself for a solid two hours, or maybe even a bit more. Your toddler’s bedtime routine can be quite the marathon.
Step 2: Diaper Duty.
This part can be a bit challenging. First, make sure all exits are blocked. Containment is crucial—if your little one makes a break for it, you’ll need extra time to bring them back. Use some clever distraction tactics to lure them over; pretend you have a cool toy or a magic trick up your sleeve (having an actual toy can help!). Avoid mentioning “bedtime” or “diaper” at all costs—doing so could derail your entire plan. Once they’re distracted, swiftly switch out the daytime diaper for the nighttime one. Quick reflexes are key here, as you’ll only have a few seconds before they start to wiggle away.
Step 3: Pajama Time.
Don’t even think about this step until the diaper chaos has settled. Once the storm has passed, engage your toddler with a fun distraction—perhaps singing their favorite song or offering their beloved stuffed animal. If you skip this step, dressing a squirmy toddler could feel like trying to put pajamas on a wriggling fish. If you’re in the potty-training phase, opt for two-piece pajamas since your little one may suddenly announce a need for the bathroom at least 64 times before actually going to sleep.
Step 4: Choose the Bedtime Story.
Keep it simple by limiting the choices to just two or three pre-selected books from the shelf. If you don’t do this, you might find yourself reading “Baby’s First Bible” for the umpteenth time. Present the options, but stress that they can only choose one. Expect some pushback; stand firm! It’s likely he’ll flip-flop between “Ernie’s Big Mess” and “Goodnight Moon” several times. Stay calm and remind him to choose definitively. Once you start reading, he may protest initially, but soon the story will pull him in. When he inevitably asks for “Again!” after you’ve finished, resist the urge to give in; giving in could set a precedent for future negotiations.
Step 5: The Great Escape (Out of the Room).
This is where the real test begins. Tuck them in, give those goodnight hugs and kisses, and prepare to exit. You’ll likely hear a “Mommy, wait!” or “Daddy, don’t go!”—reassure them that they’ll be okay and that you’re just down the hall. Depending on your parenting style, you can either let them cry it out for a few minutes before returning to comfort them or stay nearby to help them settle down. The urge to let them crawl into bed with you will be strong; resist that temptation! Once you start this habit, it’s hard to break.
Once all is quiet, indulge yourself with a glass of wine and a good book, or catch up on your favorite show. But don’t be surprised when you hear that faint “Mommy? Daddy?” from down the hall. When the volume increases to a full-on shriek, it’s time to rush back in. Prepare for a wave of relief when you find your little one smiling and ready for another round. Repeat this process until your toddler is finally asleep. Afterward, consider skipping the rest of that book or show, and maybe just pour yourself another glass of wine. You’ll need your rest for tomorrow’s bedtime adventure.
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In summary, bedtime with a toddler can be a challenging but manageable process. With patience and some clever strategies, you can help your little one wind down for the night, allowing both of you to enjoy some well-deserved rest.
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