Kids Bedtime routines with Coco Beans Founder, Jill Apgar
By Jill Apgar
All images sourced from Coco Beans
Transitions for kids can sometimes be a challenge but a good bedtime routine can help ease the discomfort of transitioning from season to season. A bedtime routine should always begin with clean and non-toxic sheets to ensure your little one is getting the best night of sleep possible. Coco Beans founder Jill Apgar, puts sustainable sleeping first in her family’s routine. We are catching up with Jill to learn more about implementing routines and clean sleeping habits.
The end of summer is always bittersweet. The sun sets a bit earlier each day, the nights begin to feel a bit chillier and the Back to School promotions are in full swing. Fall has always been my favorite season, but as a parent it also means schedule changes. It’s like children sense that change is coming and since they are still learning how to communicate their emotions, they often rely on behavior cues to indicate their discomfort. I have found that establishing consistent routines is a helpful way to manage the inevitable chaos!
I’m the best version of myself after a full night’s rest (7-8 hours is ideal, but I’ll take 6.5 if I have to). This is exactly why sleep has always been a priority in our house with Cora’s bedtime routine at the center. This absolutely does not mean that every night is a dreamland of rainbows and butterflies - we are talking about toddlers, after all! A routine isn’t a failsafe, but rather offers the structure that can help you navigate through the most challenging times.
Set Up Your Bedtime Environment:
The Sheets: This might seem obvious, but babies spend nearly 60% of their lives sleeping during the first year of life so it is important to set the stage for sleep success. Creating a safe, non-toxic and comfortable sleeping environment was paramount when Cora transitioned to sleeping in her own room. When it comes to bedding I always use silk sheets for Cora. They are naturally temperature regulating, hydrating (allowing skin and hair to retain their natural moisture), moisture wicking (so your little bean doesn’t wake up drenched in sweat), breathable, and more! There are so many reasons to sleep on silk. You also want to make sure the sheet is fitted.
Phone-Free Zone: Minimize distractions during bedtime.
Set the Stage: Cool, dark, quiet. Keep in mind, the ideal sleeping temperature is somewhere between 68-72 degrees
Attachment/Comfort Objects: Separation anxiety is real for our little beans. Establishing an attachment object like a lovey or special blanket is a great way to offer comfort when you leave the room.
Be Consistent: Keep up the routine.
Keep it Short: Experts advise that it is best to keep it under 20 minutes.
The Apgar Bedtime Routine:
BATH
BRUSH TEETH
POTTY
JAMMIES
STORYTIME
SONGS AND KISS GOOD NIGHT
More about Coco Beans
Jill and her husband Joe adopted their daughter Cora in 2018. Cora is biracial and Jill was searching for the best ways to care for her beautiful curly hair and delicate brown skin. She knew that there had to be a solution to avoid the tangled dry hair that Cora would wake up with after sleeping on traditional cotton sheets. Jill began to research the benefits of 100% silk and became certain it was the answer, but couldn't find the right product from a brand that represented her family. Committed to providing the best solution for Cora, Jill spent 18 months discovering the natural magic of 100% silk while working with women around the world to develop and perfect each detail of the Coco Beans crib sheets. Crafted from premium 19mm 100% silk. Designed for durability with beautiful French seams and long lasting elastic for a secure fit you can trust. They are naturally hypoallergenic and temperature regulating and oh so soft.
SUSTAINABILITY
Made of natural materials
long-lasting and machine washable
Packaged in reusable silk case
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