![](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Routines_Article_language-560x420.jpg)
Building Skills at Bedtime
Build language skills at bedtime!
Snuggle up and try these ideas:
- Wind down and build memories by talking about the day together. What did kids see and learn today?
- Encourage kids to say goodnight to objects around the room (clock, toys) and also to the moon and stars. Then it’s your turn: Say good night to children’s nose, elbows, and belly button! It’s fun, it’s cozy, and it’s a terrific way to build language skills while following a calming bedtime routine.
- Go over the things you did together during the day. What did kids see? What did they learn? End with a story, a special good-night song, or whatever you like.
- Have kids make choices that allow them to shape the routine: Which song or story do they want to hear? How would their stuffed animals like to say good night? Kids can begin to see bedtime as a time for sharing and comfort.
![Two adults drinking coffee.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Packard_Article_ParentsCareGiversTalk-667x500.jpg)
Communicating with Parents and Caregivers Around Routines
An article offering strategies for communication with parents/caregivers.
![A family playing tic-tac-toe.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Packard_Article_StructuredPlay-667x500.jpg)
Shaping an Engaging Learning Environment
Your space is full of opportunities for children to learn and grow!
![A parent and child holding Autumn leaves.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Packard_Article_Routine-667x500.jpg)
Planning Our Days: Creating Schedules for Children
Planning ahead can help you be intentional about the learning of the children in your care!
![First/Then Board Printable](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/FirstThenBoard-ENG-667x500.jpg)
“First/Then” Boards: Managing Daily Routines
A printable tool to help children know what to expect in their daily routines and activities.
![Daily Connections printable](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/DailyConnections-ENG-667x500.jpg)
Planning for Play in Daily Routines
A printable page to plan moments of playfulness during daily routines.
![All About My Day printable](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/AllAboutMyDayMonth-ENG-667x500.jpg)
Provider-Parent Communications Log
A printable page to help parents and caregivers communicate about a child’s day.
![Lesson Planning Practice Printable](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/PlanningPractice-ENG-667x500.jpg)
Lesson Planning Practice
A tool to plan opportunities for learning connected to monthly and weekly themes.