Heavy Work Activities for Bedtime
Calming your child's nervous system before bed has never felt more natural
I know that feeling when your child seems "wired" at bedtime, bouncing off the walls despite being exhausted. Maybe they've had a big day at school but their body just can't seem to settle down for sleep. You're not alone in wondering how to help them transition from busy to calm. This is exactly what I see with so many families.
After two decades of supporting children's development, I've learned that many children need specific types of movement and input to help their nervous systems organize and settle. But here's what many people don't realize: the right kind of physical activities before bed can actually promote better sleep rather than rev them up more.
I created this activities guide because every family deserves simple, natural strategies to help their child's body prepare for rest. No special equipment needed—just everyday activities that provide the deep pressure input growing nervous systems crave.
What's included in this resource:
- Four activity categories organized by location and timing in your evening routine
- Specific instructions with safety tips and timing suggestions
- Age modifications to make activities appropriate for different developmental stages
- Success indicators so you know when activities are working
- Quick reference guide for easy implementation and timing
Perfect for:
- Parents with children who seem "hyper" or wired at bedtime
- Families dealing with children who have trouble settling their bodies
- Anyone interested in natural, drug-free approaches to sleep support
- Households with children who seek or need sensory input
How to use this guide: This isn't about adding more tasks to your already busy evening. It's about building nervous system support into activities you're likely already doing. Use these strategies to help your child's body naturally transition from the alertness needed for daily activities to the calm needed for sleep.
Remember: A little heavy work goes a long way. Start with just one or two activities and notice what works best for your unique child.