Cool Down & Connect Routine
Summer days are full of movement, heat, stimulation, and less predictable structure—which often leads to kids being tired but wired by evening. A short, consistent end-of-day reset can help the nervous system shift into calm for bedtime.
Check out the blog for details:
1. Cool the body first (2–5 minutes)
Pick one:
Warm bath or quick shower
Wipe down face, arms, and feet with a cool washcloth
Sit in a quiet space with a cold drink through a straw
Goal: bring the body temperature and arousal level down.
2. Add “heavy calm” input (2–5 minutes)
Pick one:
Pile pillows to push or carry
Wall pushes (10–15 reps)
Snuggle under a blanket or body squeeze (“sandwich press”)
Help carry laundry or put away toys
Goal: give organizing proprioceptive input to settle the body.
3. Finish with connection + slow down (3–5 minutes)
Read a short book together
Quiet coloring or simple puzzle
3 slow deep breaths together (“smell the flower, blow out the candle”)
Talk through the day: “One fun thing, one calm thing”
Goal: shift from body regulation → emotional regulation → connection.
Why this works
Summer evenings often lack a clear routine, which can make transitions to bedtime harder. This simple sequence helps:
Downshift energy levels
Reduce sensory overload from the day
Support smoother bedtime routines
Improve emotional regulation and flexibility
If evenings feel chaotic or exhausting, you are not alone—and you don’t have to problem-solve it alone either. Your child’s OT can help design a clear, realistic, and personalized end-of-day routine that fits your family’s summer rhythm.
At Creating Connections OT, we’re here to help your child thrive—emotionally, physically, and socially. If this post resonated with you and you're wondering what the next step looks like, our New Client Page has everything you need. From what to expect in your first session to how we support your child’s unique goals, it’s all just a click away.
