Routine chart

Bedtime Routine

A six-picture chart to follow the evening routine and mark each completed step.

About this activity

Use the pictures to show your child what happens before bedtime. After each step, they can point to the picture and help mark the checklist.

At age 2, simple pictures and words help children recognize the order of a routine. The activity also creates opportunities to talk and take part.

Learning objectives

  • Point to a routine picture when an adult names it.
  • Help mark a completed step.
  • Recognize what comes next in the routine with support.

The printable

Print
Bedtime Routine Worksheet for Toddlers, Age 2

What you need

  • Printed routine chart
  • Pencil or crayon

Safety notes

An adult should stay with the child throughout the routine. Never leave a child alone in the bath or near water. Put the pencil or crayon away after use.

How to do it

  1. Place the chart somewhere visible and within the adult's reach.
  2. Show your child the six pictures and name each step in order.
  3. After dinner, point to the dinner picture and mark it on the checklist.
  4. After each following step, invite your child to find the picture and help mark the checklist.
  5. Before bed, look at the marks together and talk about what you did.

Teaching suggestions

  • Use short sentences, such as: “Bath time is done. Now let's put on pajamas.”
  • If your child needs help, point to the picture and make the mark together.
  • It's fine if your child points, gestures or simply watches.
  • Erase the marks to use the chart again, or print another copy.

Variations

Make it easier

Show only the current step and the next one. Cover the others with a sheet of paper.

Make it harder

After a step, invite your child to point to what comes next before you show them.

Try more

During the day, talk about the routine and pretend to put a doll to bed.

Talk about it

  • What do you see in this picture?
  • What do we do after bath time?
  • What story would you like to hear?
  • What helps you feel comfortable at bedtime?

What to look for

  • Notice whether your child points to a picture when you name it.
  • Notice whether they help mark a step by gesturing, scribbling or accepting help.
  • Notice whether they recognize the next step with support.