One of the sweetest rewards of parenting is cuddling with your little munchkin right before he slips into slumber. Gentle rocking, soft massages and cooing lullabies are perfect ways to give quality love at the end of a long, tiring day.

And another wonderful way to bring the day to a close is with a routine called bedtime sweet talk. 

The last moments––right before sleep––your child’s mind is wide open, like a little sponge soaking in your loving words. Bedtime sweet talk takes advantage of that golden opportunity to fill your tyke’s sleepy mind with gratitude for all the wonderful things he did that day and to nurture a sense of optimism about all the things he may do and experience tomorrow. 

Here’s how you can use this routine, with kids as young as 1-year-old:

  • Once your tot is tucked in, snuggle up next to him.
  • In a soft, understated way recount some of his fun experiences and acts of kindness from the day just past.
  • If you gave him any hand checks, count them and see if together you can remember how he earned them.
  • Think about the next day and list a few things that might happen and good deeds he may do. (“Tomorrow, I wouldn’t be surprised if you climbed all the way to the top of the play structure. And you might even help Teacher Janet pick up all the blocks again!”)

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Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider. Breastmilk is the best source of nutrition for babies. It is important that, in preparation for and during breastfeeding, mothers eat a healthy, balanced diet. Combined breast- and bottle-feeding in the first weeks of life may reduce the supply of a mother's breastmilk and reversing the decision not to breastfeed is difficult. If you do decide to use infant formula, you should follow instructions carefully.