Parenting a little one can feel like navigating a storm without a compass- sound familiar? The sleepless nights, the endless rocking, and the bags under your eyes tell the story. I’ve been there.
For over a year, I struggled to get my baby boy to sleep through the night. The lack of rest was taking a toll on me- mentally and physically. When Robin Levy, a Pyramid Model Coordinator, shared some resources and joined me on the Family Engagement Friday podcast, I was eager to try something new.
Mental health matters for everyone, but for parents, it’s critical. Sleep deprivation doesn’t just make you tired- it impacts your mood, patience, and overall well-being.
The Insight That Changed Everything
During my conversation with Robin, one simple truth stood out:
“He’s just so little that he can’t quite compensate for all the things going on.”
That’s why a routine is critical.
Robin emphasized the power of routine. When life throws curveballs, a strong routine acts like an anchor. If one thing is off (like a new tooth coming in or a sickness), the rhythm of the routine helps your child readjust.
Her tip? Don’t try to work with your baby when they’re dysregulated. Instead, lean into the flow of your established routine.
What I Tried
After that conversation, I committed to routine, routine, routine. Here’s what our evenings look like now:
6:30 PM: He gets a sippy cup of milk. While he drinks, I change his diaper and put on PJs. I narrate what’s happening:
“Okay Javi, let’s get you some milk and get you ready for bed. Let’s grab a diaper, wipes, and PJs.”
Upstairs: I hand him his toothbrush with a dab of toothpaste, and he starts brushing while I read him a book. I’ll finish brushing his teeth, put on his sleep sack, and we read two more books:
“Okay Javi, two more books and then we go to sleep, okay?”
The most important part? I stay calm so he stays calm. Bedtime can sometimes feel like wrangling an alligator, and as much as I may internally explode, I force myself to remain calm in my demeanor and tone.
This predictable sequence has made bedtime smoother and less stressful for both of us. My baby boy rarely wakes up in the middle of the night and if he does, 99% of the time he puts himself back to sleep.
Why Routines Matter
Routines aren’t just about structure- they’re about security. For little ones, predictability feels safe. And for parents? It’s a lifesaver.
Robin said something that I think every parent needs to hear at least once a week:
“It sounds like your experience is one that many moms have.”
Up to 86% of children have sleep difficulties over time. I know that I’m not alone—and neither are you.
The best sleep resources from Pyramid:
For many tips: life_easier_bedtime and tipcard.pdf
Fillable routine form: Caregiver Responsive Routines Planning Form
Calm toddler tips: Things That Will Help Me Stay Calm - Toddlers
Lastly, I’ll leave you with this…
Every child is different. Start with one of the tips and monitor the difference.
You’ve got this. You will get sleep through the night again.
