The evenings are getting shorter, and a lot of activities with my toddler fall flat.
Despite that …
I still refuse to watch TV with my him for as long as possible, so I had to come up with some ideas. Today I’d like to share with you 15 ideas on evening activities for toddlers at home. Please share your activities below.
We usually eat dinner at 5 till 6. When daddy is home we eat together. After that we have around 2 hours until my toddler sleeps at 8. I start his evening routine at around 7.30 and you can read all about that below.
Here are 15 ideas to try with your toddler in the evenings to set up a cozy, peaceful bedtime routine.
Active Evening Activities
1. Dancing Time
Something my son loves is music and dancing. So we often dance before sleeping.
- Why it’s great: Dancing helps toddlers burn off excess energy and improves their motor skills.
- How to do it:
- Play some upbeat, yet not too exciting music.
- Dance with them or let them freestyle—it’s all about having fun!
2. Chase and Play
Another activity Luca really enjoys and that burns some energy. Chasing and catching.
- Why it’s great: A few laps around the living room can help toddlers release that last bit of pre-bedtime energy.
- Tips:
- Play a simple game of tag where you gently chase them or let them chase you.
- Keep it short to avoid overstimulation.
He also loves when we play horse riding and I carry him on my back and run and jump around.
3. Nightly Walks
Some nights are actually still warm enough to take a quick walk. We love to take walks during summer, so during winter I’ll really miss the walks.
- Why it’s great: Fresh air and observing the night sky can be incredibly calming.
- What to do:
- Go for a short, slow walk around your block or yard.
- Point out stars, the moon, or any evening sounds like crickets.
Calming Evening Activities For Toddlers At Home – Before Bed
4. Bedtime Routine To Calm Down Your Toddler
At 7:30 we usually start our bedtime routine. Which is really short. It consists of brushing teeth, potty sitting and diaper changing and after that going to bed.
I still breastfeed and often he falls asleep while eating.
Previously I had to hold him in my arms and move around. You know that swaying thing you do with kids. He is getting a bit too heavy for that.
These days I try not to do that anymore. I just let him crawl around bed in the dark and turn on SleepTube, which works wonders for us. (Their sleep sounds are awesome).
Luca often cuddles and wrestles with his teddy bear and he is getting better at falling asleep while doing so.
- Why it’s great: Predictable routines signal to your toddler that it’s almost time to sleep.
- What you can include:
- A warm bath.
- Brushing teeth together while making it a fun activity.
- Pajama time with a little song or story.
5. Dim the Lights for Calm Play
- Why it’s great: Lowering lights helps signal bedtime to your toddler’s internal clock.
- How to do it:
- Gradually dim the lights in the living room or play area.
- Let them play with soft toys or cuddle in a quiet space.
6. Reading Books Together To Wind down for the Evening
A great wind-down activity. Luca loves to read books. He wants me to read the same one like 20 times.
- Why it’s great: It’s educational and relaxing.
- What to read:
- Choose books with soothing stories like Goodnight Moon or Guess How Much I Love You. Or you could try our book. A Wish for Mommy.
- Use calming voices and ask simple questions like, “What do you think happens next?”
PS.: Do you want to visualize your bedtime routine? Grab our free bedtime Routine Cards.
7. Pillow Forts
Ok this hasn’t worked so well yet. I loved it as a kid, but I think Luca isn’t old enough yet.
- Why it’s great: It creates a cozy environment for unwinding.
- How to make one:
- Grab a few cushions and a blanket to build a small fort.
- Read stories or just cuddle inside.
8. Gentle Yoga or Stretching
Try doing yoga together for some fun bonding time. My toddler has started copying some of my moves like downward facing dog.
Why it’s great: Helps toddlers calm their bodies and get ready for bed.
What to do:
Simple poses like “butterfly” (sitting with feet together) or stretching arms.
Creative and Sensory Evening Activities for Toddlers
9. Pre-Bedtime Art
- Why it’s great: Coloring or drawing helps toddlers focus and relax.
- What to do:
- Use coloring books or plain paper with crayons.
- Avoid bright colors; choose blues and purples for a calming effect.
10. Bubble Time
- Why it’s great: It’s a fun and calming evening activity at the same time.
- How to play:
- Blow bubbles and let your toddler pop them.
- Make it a game by counting the bubbles they pop.
11. Musical Storytelling
- Why it’s great: Combines the love of stories with music to capture attention.
- What to try:
- Use soft, instrumental music in the background as you tell a story.
- Let your toddler help create sound effects or join in on the storytelling.
12. Scented Playdough
- Why it’s great: Combines sensory play with calming effects. You can check our Playdough Activity Ideas here.
- What you need:
- Lavender-scented playdough for relaxation.
- Let them mold simple shapes while they take in the calming scent.
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Bonding and Comforting Rituals Before Bed
13. Soft Singing or Lullabies
- Why it’s great: Soothing songs can help toddlers feel secure.
- What to do:
- Create a short playlist or sing classics like Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.
- Sing while cuddling for added comfort.
14. Teddy Bear Picnic
My toddler really loves Teddy Bear role play. So it’s a great evening activity for my little one. We pretend play for a while, or teddy asks about his day.
- Why it’s great: Playful but low-energy bonding activity.
- What to do:
- Set up a small blanket and gather stuffed animals.
- Pretend to have a small snack or tea party with their favorite toys.
15. Guided Talking Time
- Why it’s great: Helps toddlers process their day.
- How to do it:
- Sit quietly and talk about their favorite part of the day.
- Keep it positive and light to avoid any stress before bedtime.
Wrapping Up Evening Activities for Toddlers
Creating a mix of these active and calming activities can make evenings smoother and more enjoyable for you and your toddler. Not only will you bond, but you’ll also help your little one wind down peacefully. Do you have other evening activities your toddler loves? Share your favorite bedtime traditions in the comments!
Bye the way here is a great post on how to connect with your partner after baby sleeps.
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