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The activities that make up your child's bedtime routine are for you to choose. Pick those that make you and your child comfortable and do them consistently. Here are some ideas.

1. Make bathtime a routine. A calming, warm bath is a good way to relax your young child. You can also use bathtime to prepare your child for bed by brushing his teeth and putting on his pajamas.
2. Have a quiet chat. As you tuck your child into bed, talk to her about her day, your day and things for her to look forward to in the morning.
3. Read bedtime stories. Reading to a child is a great pastime. Let your child choose a book and then read it aloud to him.
4. Sing a lullaby. Singing the same song to your child each night can be a wonderful way to soothe her to sleep. Follow it up with a tape of familiar bedtime songs.
5. Say goodnight. Once your child is ready for bed, say something like "Goodnight, sleep well, see you in the morning." Don't forget to tell him you love him.

Want to take a parenting class or find a parenting support group? Find programs that can help you through Community Services Online or call the Community Information Line at 206.461.3200 or 1.800.621.INFO.

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*Information courtesy of Born Learning™, a public engagement and material distribution campaign that provides important information about what young children need every day to ensure quality early learning. Designed to support you in your critical role as a child's first teacher, Born Learning™ materials are made available through the efforts of United Way, United Way Success by 6 and Civitas. For more information, visit bornlearning.org.