Baby and Toddler Daily Routine Planner

Baby & Toddler Daily Routine Planner

Creating a daily routine for your baby or toddler helps establish a sense of security, promotes healthy sleep, and supports overall development. Below is a structured routine that can be adjusted based on your child’s needs.

Baby Daily Routine (0-12 Months)

Morning Routine:
Start the day around 7:00 AM with a wake-up feeding, followed by a diaper change and a little cuddle time. Engage your baby in gentle sensory activities like tummy time, music, or high-contrast toys before their first nap around 9:00 AM.

Mid-Morning to Afternoon:
After waking up from the morning nap, offer another feeding, then take your baby outside for fresh air or a short stroller walk. As they grow, introduce short playtime with books and soft toys. Another nap typically happens around noon.

Afternoon Play & Naps:
After waking up, feed your baby and engage in simple activities like talking, singing, or letting them explore safe household objects. A short afternoon nap around 3:30 PM helps prevent overtiredness before bedtime.

Evening Wind-Down:
By 5:00 PM, give another feeding, followed by some calm playtime or a short bath. A consistent bedtime routine, including a warm bath, massage, quiet lullabies, and a final feeding, should start around 6:30 PM. Babies typically sleep around 7:00 PM but may wake up for night feedings.

Toddler Daily Routine (12-36 Months)

Morning Routine:
Wake your toddler around 7:00 AM and start the day with breakfast. Encourage independent eating with finger foods. After breakfast, engage in free play with puzzles, stacking blocks, or simple art activities.

Mid-Morning Learning & Play:
By mid-morning, allow some outdoor time, whether it’s a walk, playground visit, or backyard play. Around 11:30 AM, offer a healthy snack, followed by quiet activities like reading or music.

Nap & Afternoon Activities:
After lunch at 12:30 PM, begin a naptime routine to help your toddler wind down. Most toddlers take a single afternoon nap, lasting 1 to 2 hours. After naptime, encourage more structured activities like storytelling, pretend play, or interactive toys.

Evening Wind-Down & Bedtime:
Dinner is around 5:30 PM, followed by calm activities like coloring or puzzles. A bedtime routine should start around 6:30 PM, including a warm bath, a short story, and cuddles. Toddlers typically sleep by 7:30 PM.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Routine:

• Be flexible; every baby and toddler is different.
• Follow sleep cues like yawning or rubbing eyes to prevent overtiredness.
• Keep bedtime consistent to improve sleep quality.
• Engage in age-appropriate activities to encourage learning and motor skills.
• Adjust the routine as your child grows and their needs change.