Routine
This poster sets a routine of a set of activities that are predictable, creating comfort and normalcy for a child.
Ritual
The puzzle highlights the items and events that become rituals for families, memories that you and your child will remember years into the future. When I think back on my childhood night time, I think about the glow in the dark stars I had on my bedroom roof and my teddy Polar Bear Polie.
Regulation
Bedtime can be a series of activities that help the body to regulate, calm, settle and process the highs and lows of a day. Being connected and comforted by the people who love us the most and unconditionally even when we made mistakes today. For your family night time might include shower/bath, a warm blanket, eyes closed, quiet/music/white noise, hugs/cuddles, reading, prayers/affirmations, comfy pajamas, hair brushing (can also be dysregulating a time of stress for both parent and child). Explore through reading the social story what might help your child regulate while preparing for sleep time. When we think about all our body parts, different elements of sleep items can assist different parts of the body to feel good. For some children making sure they have had enough to eat, been to the toilet, perhaps lavender on their pillow or sprayed in their bedroom, and a sound environment that works for them.
