Why is a Bedtime Routine so Important?

Routine, routine, routine – It is so important for kids. But why exactly is it so beneficial? ⁣
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Routine acts as a kind of support to the brain. Routine makes things predictable, so that a child or adult can relax into that rhythm. For example, if a child always gets a bedtime story before bed, then his brain knows what to expect, and things feel safe. ⁣
Where there is less routine, brains don’t have the same chance to relax, meaning children have to remain more alert and draw on their inner resources to help them calm. If you never get to relax then you over stretch those resources. So a good gentle soothing bedtime routine can really help set your child up for a good night’s sleep. ⁣
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Bedtime reading is my favourite part of my child’s bedtime routine and it’s definitely his favourite too! If your child doesn’t have a bedtime routine in place yet, then why not give it a try and see how it goes.