A mum has shared her three tips for helping high-energy toddlers wind down at bedtime, and some parents have said it’s a gamechanger
A mother has revealed her three-step method for helping high-energy toddlers wind down at bedtime, and some parents are hailing it as a game-changer.
Bedtime can often seem like the moment when some toddlers suddenly find an extra reserve of energy that they didn’t display during the day.
Despite your best efforts – soothing lullabies, a comforting warm bath or some quiet evening telly – some toddlers just seem to have a surplus of energy that needs to be used before they can settle down to sleep.
It’s a conundrum whether to engage with your toddler’s high-energy antics or attempt to soothe them into calmness.
One mum, Jenn, who is also a personal trainer, has shared the three steps she employs when her toddler is brimming with energy – and she swears by them.
Jenn advised: “If your kid can’t wind down at bedtime, try these 3 things. Meet their energy, let them drum, stomp, or push into the floor. Big movement helps release what their nervous system is holding.
“Organise their body and brain, set up a quick obstacle course with pillows, couch cushions, or stepping stones. This gives their nervous system the structure it’s craving.
“Shift into calm. Slow rocking, deep hugs, dim lights, and soft voices tell their body it’s finally safe to rest.”
Other parents chimed in with their own experiences in the comments, sharing their struggles and the various methods they’ve tried to get their energetic toddlers to sleep.
One parent shared: “My Son, my wife and myself go absolutely ape s**t for about 45 minutes before bedtime, then 5 minutes after lights out, his lights are out, rinse and repeat every night.”
Another chimed in: “I did all of these things with my great grandson who is now turning five and no longer needs these things to regulate. He’s able to do that on his own now.
“I’m so glad that I spent the time educating myself, my daughter, and my granddaughter so that we could help him get through those times while allowing him to be who he is!”.
“One of the best things I ever bought for him was a tent for his bed and hung lights inside. It was his little getaway!”.
A third user enthused: “Love this! Some nights we turn on Bluey Dance Mode on YouTube and dance around in the living room.”
