If you’ve ever tried to tuck in a little one who just isn’t ready to say goodnight, you’re not alone.
Our friend — and children’s yoga teacher — Lauren Sullivan shared recently that bedtime with her three-year-old has been a little tough. Big feelings, big imagination, and that new awareness that “mom and dad might leave the room” can make bedtime a challenge.
Lauren's daughter has one of our Ozarks House Beds, a cozy wooden house shaped frame that creates a calm, safe sleep space for her daughter — and it’s become the perfect setting for their new bedtime rhythm.
Here’s what Lauren shared with us:
“Lately, bedtime has been hard. Age 3 brings huge developmental leaps… a big imagination (yet inability to tell what’s real vs pretend — hello fear), separation awareness, and growing autonomy.
Our three-year-old doesn’t want us to leave her room and we can tell it’s not just stalling… there’s a little bit of fear there, too.
So instead of forcing separation, we’re trying to meet her where she is with play and presence. Here’s what we’re trying — and she’s loving lately.”
1️⃣ The Bravery Light
Lauren uses a Hatch machine as a low night light. Before bed, they turn it on together and pretend it gives her “bravery power.” They “charge it up” with hugs and deep breaths. This turns fear into empowerment.
2️⃣ The Stuffie Squad
Each night, her daughter picks two stuffed animals to tuck in and tell “good night” — just like mom and dad do for her. It’s a small but powerful way for little ones to practice independence and nurturing.
3️⃣ The Peek Plan
Instead of a hard goodbye, Lauren and her husband tell their daughter they’ll peek in after ten minutes. This makes separation predictable and helps her feel safe — and more often than not, she’s asleep before they even come back.
4️⃣ The Worry Window
Before lights out, they open the curtains just a bit and “let the worries float out.” Then they say goodnight to the moon — a lovely, tangible way to release tension and invite calm.
5️⃣ The Calm Down Countdown
Lauren’s final trick? Five deep breaths with each finger:
1️⃣ I am safe
2️⃣ I am loved
3️⃣ Mommy and Daddy always come back
4️⃣ My bed is cozy
5️⃣ My body can rest
Simple affirmations that help little ones transition from busy minds to peaceful sleep.
Bedtime may never be perfect, but with a few grounding rituals — and a cozy, secure space to rest — those hard “good nights” can start to feel a little easier.
We’re so grateful to Lauren for sharing these ideas (and for letting us peek into her family’s bedtime routine in their beautiful Ozarks House Bed). 💛
Looking to create a cozy sleep space of your own?
Explore our handcrafted Ozarks House Bed and House Bed Collection more thoughtful designs made for growing families.
Follow Lauren Sullivan on Instagram for more tips!