👧🏽👦🏼👶🏻Solo bedtime – multiple children👶🏻👦🏼👧🏽
Doing bedtime solo with more than one child is a whole different level of multitasking and if it feels chaotic, you’re not alone (Mum of 4 young boys here 👋). But with the right structure, it can become calm, predictable and even enjoyable.
The secret is staggering and prioritising, not trying to settle everyone at the exact same time.
Start by prepping everything before you begin so pyjamas, nappies, bottles, books, bedrooms, white noise… the more ready you are, the smoother the flow. As I mentioned previously, on solo bedtime days I have everything ready at 3pm!!
Give the older child a clear role such as choosing the bedtime story, “helping” with the baby’s sleeping bag, or picking their own book to look at while you settle the younger one. Children love a job, and it keeps them close and calm.
Settle the youngest first — they usually need you the most and won’t wait long. Once they’re down, your hands and attention are free for the older one. If the baby fusses, simply reset calmly and continue. Consistency wins everytime!
Then move on to the older child with a simple, predictable routine they know well. Keeping their routine steady helps avoid overwhelm or resentment when your attention is shared.
The only time I would settle the older child first would be if the older child isn’t much older and can’t left on their own. I had 20 months between mine! In that case I’d take the younger one with you, settle the older one and then settle the younger one.
And remember that a “perfect” bedtime doesn’t exist. What matters is that your children feel safe, calm and connected and you get through it with your sanity intact!!
You’re stronger than you think. 🤍
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