Dreading Bedtime? Let’s Change That.

 Try One of These Mantras Tonight!

If you know, you know. It doesn’t matter if your little one is 4 months or 4 years old — bedtime struggles can leave parents feeling drained and frustrated. Whether your baby is resisting sleep or your toddler is in the middle of a bedtime battle, it’s all too easy to dread that part of the day.

Guess what? You don’t have to dread bedtime. In fact, it can be a sweet, peaceful part of the day — for you and your baby.

For example, when my daughter was two years old, she would happily say “night night” as she headed up to brush her teeth, often taking my hand to lead me to the stairs. As we finished her bedtime routine, she’d look up at me and say, “Night night, Mama. Love you.” My heart still melts just thinking about it. 😍

Now, at six years old, she wraps me in a tight hug and says, “I love you, Mama. Good night.” It’s still such a special moment—just a little quieter, a little deeper, and just as sweet.

It hasn’t always been this way. We’ve had our share of struggles. But as a sleep consultant, I know just how important it is to create a peaceful environment around sleep — and that starts with your mindset. A friend once told me to “put it into the universe,” and now I swear by it. When you speak what you want into existence, you can shift the energy around it.

In my experience, mantras are a powerful tool. They’re more than just something you repeat — they’re a way to focus your energy and intentions. Plus, remember that feelings are contagious. If you approach bedtime with anxiety, it’s likely your little one will pick up on it. Confidence is key!

So, I’m giving you permission right now to look forward to bedtime — and to make it a peaceful, positive experience. Try one of these mantras tonight:

• I am doing my best, and so is my baby.
• This feeling will pass soon.
• My baby is perfect just as they are.
• I am the best parent for my baby.
• This is a phase. It won’t last forever.
• I am giving my baby the best sleep experience possible.

Give one of these mantras a try tonight. Let me know how it goes! And remember, mama, you’ve got this! Dada, you do too. 👏

Sweet dreams,
Tegan Donahue
Mom of two | Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant | Owner of SleepytimeSolutions