This is a paid partnership between TomaLeche.com and Latina Moms
As parents, it’s so important to create a night time routine to help our little ones to ease into “dreamland”. In general, routines help children learn self-control and also the consistency of a routine create a feeling of safety and comfort. These everyday (or evening) actions are rich opportunities to support your child’s learning of independence, self-confidence and security, preparing him for that time – as he grows older – when he will begin doing it all by himself!
Below are some ways to create a soothing bedtime routine that not only will help calm your child, but also create a bonding moment for the family through reading and sharing bedtime stories that you can easily access at Toma Leche. The truth is that these “routines” also become traditions and memories that will be cherished for years to come.
Pause stimulating activities to help them relax
A warm soothing bath is an excellent idea to help your child wind down from all the day’s fun. Letting your child choose a favorite pajama teaches them independence and freedom, which will make them more open to say ‘good night’ without a fuss.
A glass of warm milk to soothe the heart
When he’s bathed and dressed in comfy pj’s, a warm glass of milk is one of the best options you can offer! A soothing glass of warm milk contains a natural occurring raw material known as tryptophan, which the brain uses to build both serotonin and melatonin. These are compounds that help us relax and prepare for sleep. Sweet, warm and effective.
The last magical touch: stories!
Reading books together can be the sweetest time of the night time routine, and another time when your child can exert a little independence. Let them pick a story from Toma Leche, then cuddle up together in the same spot every night — on your toddler’s bed, the rocking chair, whatever is comfiest — and read. Any of the books on this site have been carefully selected to give you a beautiful moment to share with your little ones before they visit dreamland.
Research has shown that when parents read bedtime stories, their kids do better at school. Bedtime stories also encourage speech and language development and help children learn literacy skills in an enjoyable way. If nothing else, a story at snooze time helps create happy sleep rituals and cherish beautiful moments.
The idea is to lull and relax, and help them ease into dreamland feeling secure and loved. After you’ve finished the last story, tuck your child into bed with his favorite stuffed animal and turn on the night-light (if he’s afraid of the dark). Stay around if needed, or go to your room with the promise to come back. Chances are, he’ll be fast asleep when you return!