Falling asleep is a magical moment, but sometimes also a challenge. Our sleep expert Dina Reppin shares valuable tips on how to create a harmonious evening routine with mindful and flexible adjustments.
Why routines should be flexible
Children develop rapidly, and with these developmental steps, their needs also change. What worked yesterday may suddenly no longer be appropriate today. Especially when falling asleep takes longer or becomes more difficult, it's time to pause and pay closer attention to your child's signals.
1. Interpret signals correctly
Your child will clearly show you when they're ready for a change in routine. Look for these signs:
- Resistance to sleep aids: Your child suddenly doesn't like being carried or rocked anymore.
- Falling asleep longer: The child is in a good mood, wants to romp around or is enthusiastically practicing new skills such as crawling or talking in bed.
- Fear of the dark: Your child cries when entering the dark bedroom.
- Restlessness after brushing teeth: The transition to bedtime is no longer smooth.
If you notice one or more of these signs, it's time to rethink your bedtime routine.
2. Adapting needs: What helps your child?
The challenge of falling asleep often lies in small, adjustable details:
✅ Try new sleep aids: Swap carrying for cuddling or sing a soothing lullaby.
✅ Rethink waking times: Your child may need more time between naps to be tired enough.
✅ Create atmosphere: Darken the room together with your child or use a soft night light (e.g. red light).
✅ Schedule time: Give your child space to practice new skills such as walking or talking extensively before bedtime.
✅ Reorder routine items: Move activities that are currently difficult (e.g. brushing teeth) to the beginning of the routine.
3. Mindfulness and flexibility: the key to harmony
Say goodbye to rigid routines and find what works for you. Every family is unique, and the most important thing is that everyone feels comfortable.
The valuable tips and content in this blog post come from Dina Reppin, an experienced sleep expert who supports parents with empathy and expertise on their journey to restful nights. Dina is the founder of Sanft & Geborgen and offers personalized advice on baby sleep. Visit her website sanftundgeborgen.de to learn more about her work and receive further support.
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