Balanced Bedtimes

Hosted by:

English OT LLC

The group chat summary

Pediatric occupational therapist and mom of two, Courtney English walked us through why bedtime feels so overwhelming for kids and parents. She explained how much of bedtime behavior is really about nervous system regulation, sleep pressure, and connection. She also shared simple sensory ideas to help evenings feel less chaotic and more predictable.

Key takeaways 💡

• 🌙 Sleep supports memory, mood, growth, and regulation
• 🎈 Sleep pressure builds like a balloon through the day
• ☀️ Light helps set the body clock
• ⚡ Zoomies can mean overtired or undertired
• 🏦 Kids’ “brain banks” are often drained by bedtime
• 💪 Movement, pressure, and touch help regulate
• 🛁 Add simple sensory steps: pillow squeezes, blanket rides, warm baths, bubble play
• 🤝 Co-regulation helps kids “jump on your Wi-Fi” and feel