Solo Parenting at Bedtime

A question I have been receiving more frequently these days is about best practices when it comes to keeping the train on the tracks when there is only one parent there to do the bedtime routine. Whether you are a single parent or you are just on your own at this time, here are a few ways you can experiment as you try to hold those consistent routines in place as much as possible. No matter what, always remember that you need to do what is best for your family in the moment. You are the captain steering the ship, the conductor on the tracks, the pilot landing the plane. You get it. You are in charge, and you can do this. I am in your corner and I am really glad you are here.

I DON’T HAVE A PARTNER HOME WITH ME DURING BEDTIME AND I NEED TO PUT MORE THAN ONE CHILD TO BED. HOW DO I NAVIGATE THIS?

Staggered bedtimes can be very helpful. If you have an infant or toddler, it’s often easiest to put them down in their crib first and then forge ahead with your older kiddos’ routine. With my boys being just 12 months apart, I would often do the first part of the routine up to books together. Then I read to whoever needed to go to bed first and got them tucked in with lights out before then reading to the second child. On weekends or nights that we were in bed on the earlier side, I would read with them both at the same time in one of their beds all snuggled up or I would hold up the book teacher style. If the age difference is a couple of years or more you likely have more wiggle room and can stagger more easily. If you “bigger” kid has just dropped all naps, however, you may be looking at a similar bedtime as you will be putting your new napless kiddos down earlier than before. If this is the case, start dinner 15-30 minutes earlier if possible, to aim for an earlier bedtime.

These days, my 7&8-year-olds are starting their books without me (or husband), but will still call out “MOMMMMMM”, to be sure they get that snuggle with them or have us read a few pages with them before lights out. Honestly, it’s my favorite time of day because the connection is special, whether we have our heart-to-heart or we just read. There is something so comforting about books and bedtime.

As always, If you need more help please contact me!