Should I Have a Bedtime Routine?
2 min read Published 3 Jun 2026
By Georgia Hayward, Certified Infant & Toddler Sleep CoachWhy Routines Help
A consistent bedtime routine can be a helpful way of signalling to your child that sleep is approaching. Much like adults, children benefit from predictability. Repeating the same calming activities each evening can help prepare both their body and mind for sleep.
A simple bedtime routine can be introduced from around 6–8 weeks of age, or any time after that. It doesn't need to be rigid or follow a strict schedule - the goal is simply to create consistent cues that help your baby recognise that bedtime is approaching.
What to Include
A bedtime routine doesn't need to be complicated or lengthy. It might include:
A bath (if your child enjoys one)
Nappy change or toilet trip
Pyjamas
A feed
A story
A cuddle and goodnight
The specific activities matter less than the consistency. The aim is to create a calm and predictable sequence that works for your family.
Screens Before Bed
For older babies and toddlers, reducing screen time before bed can be beneficial. The blue light emitted from screens can suppress the production of melatonin - the hormone that helps us feel sleepy - making it harder for some children to wind down.
Keep It Realistic
A simple routine that you can stick to most evenings is often far more effective than an elaborate routine that feels stressful to maintain. Social media can make it seem as though every child enjoys a perfectly calm bath, story and bedtime - real life is rarely that straightforward.
If you're in the early weeks with a newborn and would like expert support with sleep, my Newborn Essentials package (£100) includes a 45-minute call and a comprehensive guide covering safe sleep, routines and settling.
Quote PARENTBOOST when you get in touch at info@tenderlovingsleep.com to receive 15% off. Find me on Instagram @tenderlovingsleep.
This article is published by ParentBoost. It was written or reviewed for ParentBoost by the contributor below and edited by our team. It is general information for parents, not individual professional advice.
Georgia Hayward
Certified Infant & Toddler Sleep Coach
Hi, I'm Georgia. Based in Sussex, I am an OCN-certified Infant and Toddler Sleep Coach and NHS Midwife. I've spent over nine years working closely with parents and young children, giving me a real understanding of the challenges that come with early childhood, especially when it comes to sleep. Having experienced sleep deprivation first-hand as a mum, I now provide gentle, evidence-based sleep support tailored to your child's needs through my service, Tender Loving Sleep.
This article is general guidance for parents and carers, not medical, health, legal or other professional advice. Every child is different. If you're worried about your child's health or development, talk to your GP, health visitor or another suitable professional. In an emergency, call 999. For urgent advice, call NHS 111.
