30 Things to Say to Your Toddler at Bedtime

Bedtime can feel like a whole production—pajamas negotiated, water refilled (twice), one more book requested (three times)…and then, finally, your toddler is still. That’s your opening!

Dr. Harvey Karp calls this moment Bedtime Sweet Talk: a simple end-of-day ritual that uses the last minutes before sleep—when your child’s mind is “wide open…like a little sponge”—to fill them up with loving words, gratitude for the day, and optimism for tomorrow.

Once your toddler is tucked in, snuggle close and keep your voice soft and calm. Then:

• Recount a few fun moments and kind acts from the day.
• Name a couple of good things that might happen tomorrow (“I wouldn’t be surprised if…”).

You’re not just saying goodnight…you’re helping your toddler drift off feeling safe, seen, and loved. But if you find yourself searching for the right words (after all, it’s been a long day), feel free to borrow one of these bedtime-ready phrases.

Sweet Phrases to Use at Bedtime

1. “I love you exactly the way you are.”
2. “You’re safe here with me.”
3. “I’m so glad I get to be your parent.”
4. “Nothing could change how much I love you.”
5. “You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be you.”
6. “You worked really hard on ___ today.”
7. “You kept trying—even when it was tricky.”
8. “I noticed your kind heart when you ___.”
9. “You were a good helper today.”
10. “Thank you for being you.”
11. “You make our family better.”
12. “I’m proud of you.”
13. “Even when you’re upset, you’re still loved.”
14. “It’s okay to have big feelings.”
15. “Tomorrow is a fresh start.”
16. “I loved watching you ___ today.”
17. “You were really brave when you ___.”
18. “You made someone smile today when you ___.”
19. “I noticed you used gentle hands.”
20. “You did your best today—and that matters.”
21. “Did anything surprise you today?”
22. “What made you laugh today?”
23. “What was your favorite part of today?”
24. “What’s one thing you want me to remember about today?”
25. “Is there anything you want to tell me?”
26. “Do you have any questions about anything?”
27. “I’m always here for you.”
28. “I believe in you.”
29. “Tomorrow, I wouldn’t be surprised if you ___.” (climbed higher / built bigger / shared again!)
30. “Sleep tight—I’ll be right here.”

More Tips on Talking to Toddlers:

• Things to Say to Your Toddler Instead of "Be Careful"
• Questions to Ask Instead of "How Was Your Day?"
• Sweet Ways to Show Your Child Love
• Phrases to Get Your Tot Talking

Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.