Bedtime Routine Chart
A predictable wind-down tells little bodies it’s time to rest. Build a picture chart in your family’s order, print it, and use it every night.
5 minutes to build · 20–30 minutes each night
Build your chart
Start with tidy up, wash, pajamas, teeth, story and goodnight — then reorder, remove or add steps that fit your home.
Your steps, in order
- 1Tidy up toys
- 2Bath or wash up
- 3Put on pajamas
- 4Brush teeth
- 5Read a story
- 6Lights low & goodnight
Add a step
Your chart saves on this device only.
Every night
My Bedtime Routine
Point to each picture. Check the box when it’s done!
- 1Tidy up toys
- 2Bath or wash up
- 3Put on pajamas
- 4Brush teeth
- 5Read a story
- 6Lights low & goodnight
Boogie & Bean World · Free printable routine chart
Keeping bedtime predictable
Same time, most nights
Children ages 3 to 5 generally need 10 to 13 hours of sleep in 24 hours, including naps. A steady bedtime and wake time helps them get it.
Give a warning
Say “Five more minutes, then bath time,” or use a visual timer. Transitions are easier when they don’t come as a surprise.
Dim and quiet
Lower lights and voices as the routine goes on. Turn off screens a while before bed and keep them out of the bedroom.
Offer small choices
“Blue pajamas or striped?” “One book or two short ones?” Choices give children control within a clear plan.
Protect curls
A satin or silk bonnet, scarf or pillowcase reduces friction and tangles overnight — and makes mornings faster.
Keep the goodnight the same
A special phrase, song or handshake at lights-out becomes a comforting signal that the day is done.
When bedtime gets tricky
- Calling out after lights-out: offer one planned “check-in” (“I’ll come back to check on you after I wash the dishes”) and keep it brief and boring.
- Fears of the dark: a dim nightlight and a comfort object can help. Talk about worries earlier in the evening, not only at lights-out.
- Sensory needs: some children settle better with a weighted-feeling blanket, a fan’s hum, tag-free pajamas or a set order to the bath. Follow what calms your child.
- Two homes or shift work: keep the same chart and steps in every home, even if bedtime is different. Grandparents and caregivers can use the printed chart too.
- Snoring, frequent waking or daytime sleepiness that concerns you is worth mentioning to your pediatrician.
Sources we checked
We used these public resources to check safety, nutrition and development guidance on this page. Linking to them does not mean these organizations endorse Boogie & Bean World.