As the sun dipped below the horizon and the stars began to twinkle in the dusky sky, it was time for the Watson family to start winding down for the night. Creating a bedtime routine for older kids can be a delightful way to foster independence while still instilling the comforting rituals of nightfall.

In the living room, their eldest, Emily, placed her tablet away, signalling the transition from the day’s exhilarating activities to a more tranquil setting. This evening, they had decided to introduce a “wind-down hour” before bedtime, allowing each child to choose an activity that would help them relax.

Tom, her younger brother, opted for some quiet reading time, selecting his latest adventure novel. Meanwhile, Emily chose to practice her drawing, sketching out scenes from her imagination while listening to soothing music. It's important to let them have some agency in their routine, allowing them to feel a sense of control and responsibility.

Once the hour had passed, the family gathered in the snug of the sitting room for a calming bedtime story. They chose a classic tale filled with moral lessons and fantastical imagery, perfect for sparking conversation. After the story, they followed it up with a few moments of reflection, discussing what they learned or enjoyed most.

The night concluded with Emily and Tom brushing their teeth and preparing for bed, feeling relaxed and content after their shared moments. With soft lights dimmed and the gentle hum of the night settling around their house, the Watson children felt safe and ready for sleep, knowing that a comforting routine awaited them each night.