One of the sweetest rewards of parenting is cuddling with your little munchkin right before he slips into slumber. Gentle rocking, soft massages and cooing lullabies are perfect ways to give quality love at the end of a long, tiring day.

Another wonderful way to bring the day to a close is with a routine called bedtime sweet talk.

Toddler Bedtime Routine With Sweet Talk

The last moments––right before sleep––your child’s mind is wide open, like a little sponge soaking in your loving words. Bedtime sweet talk takes advantage of that golden opportunity to fill your tyke’s sleepy mind with gratitude for all the wonderful things he did that day and to nurture a sense of optimism about all the things he may do and experience tomorrow.

Here’s how you can use this toddler bedtime routine, with kids as young as 1-year-old:

  • Once your tot is tucked in, snuggle up next to him.
  • In a soft, understated way recount some of his fun experiences and acts of kindness from the day just past.
  • If you gave him any hand checks, count them and see if together you can remember how he earned them.
  • Think about the next day and list a few things that might happen and good deeds he may do. (“Tomorrow, I wouldn’t be surprised if you climbed all the way to the top of the play structure. And you might even help Teacher Janet pick up all the blocks again!”)

Final Thoughts on Using Sweet Talk for Your Toddler Bedtime Routine

Toddler bedtime sweet talk is a huge confidence boost that helps your tot wake up the next morning ready for anything. It’s a wonderful way for parents to bond with their tyke. On top of that, it makes bedtime something your toddler looks forward to...instead of something to avoid at all cost!

    About Dr. Harvey Karp

    Dr. Harvey Karp, one of America’s most trusted pediatricians, is the founder of Happiest Baby and the inventor of the groundbreaking SNOO Smart Sleeper. After years of treating patients in Los Angeles, Dr. Karp vaulted to global prominence with the release of the bestselling Happiest Baby on the Block and Happiest Toddler on the Block. His celebrated books and videos have since become standard pediatric practice, translated into more than 20 languages and have helped millions of parents. Dr. Karp’s landmark methods, including the 5 S’s for soothing babies, guide parents to understand and nurture their children and relieve stressful issues, like new-parent exhaustion, infant crying, and toddler tantrums.

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    Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.