Teddy's Bedtime Routine
Kids become teddy bears who act out their bedtime routine with slow, pretend movements: yawning, putting on pajamas, brushing teeth and getting into bed. It builds imitation, healthy rest habits and relaxation.
How to play
- Spread kids out, standing. Say: "We're teddy bears and it's nighttime. Time to get ready for bed" (20 sec).
- Say: "Teddy yawns and stretches." Do three big, slow yawns with arms reaching to the ceiling (40 sec).
- Say: "Teddy puts on pajamas." Act out sliding in one leg, then the other, then the arms, and buttoning up (1 min).
- Say: "Teddy brushes teeth and washes their face." Brush with a pretend toothbrush and splash water on your face with your hands (1 min).
- Say: "Teddy climbs into bed and pulls up the covers." They lie on the floor, pull up a pretend blanket and curl up (30 sec).
- Turn off the lights if you can and whisper: "Goodnight, Teddy." They stay still and breathe slowly while you count to twenty.
Rules
- Each teddy acts in their own spot.
- Do everything slowly and quietly.
- In bed, no talking or moving.
- Wait for the teacher to say "good morning" before getting up.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, do only three steps: yawn, pajamas and bed.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, do the full routine following the teacher.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, they choose the order of the routine and one child leads it with gestures.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the child does all the actions seated and curls up in the chair with head on arms.
- Hearing loss: make each gesture big and clear, and wait until everyone copies it before moving on.
- Skill level: kids who know the routine add details like brushing hair or turning off the lamp; kids who get lost stand facing you.
Learning goals
- Imitate everyday actions with slow gestures.
- Recognize why rest and hygiene matter.
- Reach stillness and calm at the end of class.
Teacher tip
This works great right before recess or nap time. If you have a teddy bear, show it at the start and tuck it in with them at the end.
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