At Children's Bed Shop, we know just how valuable a good night's sleep is for growing children - and for parents too. Whether your little one is starting nursery or preparing for their first year at school, the benefits of quality rest are huge. Better mood, improved focus, stronger immunity and even better appetite all stem from regular, healthy sleep. But getting there can be tricky, especially with busy family schedules and ever-changing routines.

One of the most effective ways to support your child's sleep is by establishing a calm, predictable routine at bedtime. With the right activities and the right bedroom setup, children can settle more quickly, sleep more deeply, and wake up feeling truly refreshed. Here are five bedtime activities we recommend to help improve your child's sleep.

1. Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine

Children thrive on familiarity, and creating a regular bedtime routine helps them feel secure and in control. By repeating the same series of steps each evening - brushing teeth, changing into pyjamas, reading a book - you'll be sending clear signals to their brain and body that it's time to wind down. Try to start this routine at the same time each night, even on weekends, so your child's internal clock can adjust.

2. Create a Calming Environment

The environment your child falls asleep in can have a significant impact on how easily they doze off and whether they stay asleep through the night. Before bed, we recommend dimming the lights, turning off all screens, and encouraging quiet time. Keep noise to a minimum and consider using blackout blinds if light levels are an issue.

Keeping the bedroom tidy and free from clutter can also make it more restful. A good solution is to choose a bed that incorporates storage. Our mid sleeper cabin beds come with integrated drawers, shelves or desks, helping to keep toys and books organised while freeing up floor space. Not only do these beds look neat, but they also create a calm atmosphere that's perfect for sleep.

3. Incorporate Soothing Activities

Soothing activities are an ideal way to help your child transition from the energy of the day to the quiet of the night. Reading a book together is a classic choice and a great opportunity for bonding, but you could also try listening to a gentle audiobook, doing a few simple breathing exercises, or even introducing some light stretching.

If your children share a room, a bunk bed can offer both closeness and independence. With their own designated space, each child can engage in calming activities without disturbing the other.

4. Ensure The Bed Is Comfortable and Inviting

The right bed can make all the difference when it comes to how your child feels about bedtime. If a bed feels like a cosy retreat, your child is much more likely to look forward to sleep. We recommend choosing a mattress that supports their growing body and breathable bedding that suits the season.

Beds that double as fun or themed furniture can also help children feel excited about bedtime. Whether it's a house bed, a car-shaped frame, or something simple in their favourite colour, this personal touch can go a long way.

5. Limit Stimulating Activities Before Bed

One of the most common barriers to sleep is overstimulation, especially in the hour before bedtime. Screens, noisy play, sugary snacks and even exciting conversations can all interfere with the natural winding-down process. Instead, we suggest switching to quieter activities, offering a light snack if needed, and maintaining a calm, dim environment.

If your child's bed includes a built-in desk or play space, encourage them to use this area earlier in the evening, keeping the actual bed purely for rest. This separation helps children associate their bed with sleep, not play or study. Our high sleeper beds with desks and storage built in are a practical way to support this distinction, particularly for older children and teens.

Helping Your Child Get The Rest They Need

Getting bedtime right isn't always easy, but with the right activities and environment, you can lay the groundwork for better sleep and happier mornings. At Children's Bed Shop, we believe that choosing the right bed is a major part of this process. Whether it's a toddler bed for your little one's first big sleep space or a cabin bed for a growing child who needs more storage, our range is designed to support restful nights and peaceful routines.

With a few simple changes and a little patience, you'll soon find that bedtime becomes a calmer, more positive experience for the whole family.