Consistent bedtime routine
0–6 monthsFamily ConnectionNo materials needed
Follow the same sequence of calming activities each night before sleep. This might include a gentle massage, quiet song, and placing your child in their sleep space with the same phrase. The predictability helps your child trust that sleep time is coming and feel secure.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Follow the same sequence of calming activities each night before sleep. This might include a gentle massage, quiet song, and placing your child in their sleep space with the same phrase. The predictability helps your child trust that sleep time is coming and feel secure.
Why It Works
Repetition and routine create a sense of security and help infants learn what to expect. Reciprocal trust and respect established early predict lower rates of parent-child conflict and better cooperation during challenging developmental periods (Collins & Steinberg, 2006). When bedtime follows a predictable pattern, your child learns to trust the routine and your consistency. This reliable structure demonstrates respect for your child's need for predictability and builds trust in your caregiving.
Tips for Parents
Choose three to four simple steps you can do every night in the same order.
Keep the routine calm and quiet to signal that sleep is coming.
Use the same goodnight phrase each time you place your child down to sleep.
Materials Needed
None
Learning Methods
Responsive InteractionRepetition and Routine
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