Bath and bedtime

A simple routine

• Talk through each step as you do it: "Paw. Other paw. Tummy."¹
• Show what comes next. A chart with the steps in order can make the routine easy to follow.¹
• Dim the lights before bedtime. A short sequence such as brush, book, bed is easy to remember.²
• A bath and a story are a good way to wind down, at about the same time each night.³

What the research says

In a randomized trial of 405 mothers of children aged 7 to 36 months, a consistent nightly routine was followed by falling asleep sooner, fewer night wakings and better mood for the mothers. A later study of young children found that more nights a week with a routine went with better sleep. These are patterns in families, not guarantees for any one child.

• Nightly routine and sleep in 7 to 36 month olds (randomized trial).⁴
• More nights with a routine went with better sleep outcomes.⁵

Safety first

• Never leave a baby or young child alone in the bath, even for a moment. Stay within arm's reach whenever a child is in or near water.^{6, 7}
• For sleep, place a baby on their back on a firm, flat surface, with no soft objects or loose bedding in the sleep area.⁸

About our stories

Pim's Bath turns the bath into time together: one step and one naming word on every spread, a refrain to say or sing, and Mama always within reach. Pim Holds On is for the first goodbyes. Both are short, made for ages 6 to 30 months.