Building Better Bedtimes: Why Following Directions During the Day Matters

When we think about sleep challenges, we often jump straight to bedtime routines, calming activities, or cutting down on screens. But there’s a skill that doesn’t always get the spotlight—and it can make a huge difference in how smoothly bedtime goes: following directions during the day.

Bedtime routines are really just a series of directions:🛁 Put on pajamas🪥 Brush teeth📚 Pick a book🛏️ Get into bed

If our learners struggle with following directions during the day, we can’t expect bedtime to be the very first time they’re successful. The good news? We can build this skill proactively in ways that reduce resistance and create more confidence for kids—and less stress for parents.

1️⃣ Practice Relinquishing Preferred Items

One of the biggest bedtime battles comes from asking kids to give up something they love—like their tablet, toys, or video games. If the only time they practice this skill is at night, it is unlikely that they will be successful.

💡 Solution: Build practice into the day. Have them give up a preferred toy in exchange for a snack, or pause a game to help with a quick chore. The more chances they have to succeed, the easier bedtime transitions will feel.

2️⃣ Give Choices to Build Control

Kids thrive when they feel like they have some control. At bedtime, choices can be as simple as:👕 “Do you want the red or the blue pajamas?”📖 “Do you want Goodnight Moon or The Very Hungry Caterpillar tonight?”

These small decisions give kids a sense of autonomy, which reduces power struggles when it’s time to follow through.

3️⃣ Practice 1-, 2-, and 3-Step Directions

Depending on your learner’s language level, practice following simple directions throughout the day: 1. “Get your backpack.” 2. “Get your backpack and take out your folder.” 3. “Get your backpack, take out your folder, and bring it to me.”

This helps strengthen listening skills and ensures that when you say “brush your teeth, put on pajamas, and grab a book,” your child is ready for success.

4️⃣ Reinforce Following Directions

Reinforcement doesn’t always mean candy or stickers. Often, what kids crave most is your attention. Smile, clap, give a high-five, or describe exactly what they did well:✨ “I love how you listened the first time I asked you to put your toy away!”

These moments build motivation and make following directions a positive experience—not just another demand.

Final Thoughts

When kids can follow directions with confidence during the day, bedtime becomes a lot smoother for everyone. Think of it like practice: if they’ve already rehearsed these skills, bedtime is simply their chance to shine.

Want to chat about building direction following into your daily routine? Book a free 15-minute consult today https://calendly.com/lindsay-restfulkids/free-15-minute-chat