What Do I Say at Bedtime? Calm Words for the Child Who Doesn't Want You to Leave.
A 7-page quick-start guide that shows you what's really happening at bedtime, gives you a simple routine, and hands you the exact words to say at the door, starting tonight.
Bath, pajamas, a story, a hug. Then you head for the door, and it starts.
"I'm scared." "Stay with me." "Don't go."
So you stay. Or you leave and they cry. Or you go back in, and bedtime starts all over again.
You're not a bad parent, and your child isn't being bad. You're both stuck in a pattern. This short guide helps you break it, beginning with the words you say tonight.
Inside, you'll get:
- Bedtime Pattern Check (printable): find out if your child's struggle is separation, stalling, or fear, and where to focus
- The 5-Step Bedtime Routine (printable): a simple chart that meets every need before lights out, so "one more thing" has nowhere to go
- Goodnight Script Sheet (printable): the one script to use every night, plus what to say instead of "I'll stay until you fall asleep"
- Your First-Night Plan: exactly what to do before bed, at the door, when they call, and when they come out
- Three Things to Stop Doing Tonight
This guide is for you if:
- Your child cries, clings, or calls you back when you leave the room
- Bedtime takes forever and you're exhausted
- You want to comfort your child without staying until they fall asleep
Written by Ivy Caldwell, a mother of four sons with more than 25 years of experience working with children and families, including 14 years as a childcare provider.
Know what's happening. Know what to do. Know what to say.
Instant PDF download. Printable pages included.
