Parenting Perspective 

A steady and soothing bedtime routine can be a highly effective way to minimise evening tantrums. At the conclusion of the day, children frequently find themselves exhausted both mentally and physically. Changes like finishing playtime, cleaning teeth, and turning off lights can lead to pushback. 

A consistent routine, like a calm bath, putting on pyjamas, reading a story, and having a brief conversation, helps the child feel secure and aware of what to expect next. Narratives can serve as a smooth shift from being active to a state of calm, offering an opportunity for contemplation. Calm and straightforward stories help the child relax both emotionally and physically. 

Repetition plays a crucial role, particularly for young children. Older children also gain advantages from this peaceful time spent together. Parents can take this chance to gently introduce emotional language without giving a lecture by saying things like, ‘This story makes me think of how brave you were today.’ These routines are not just nice to have; they serve as essential sources of stability. 

Bedtime Routine Suggestions 

• Warm bath or shower 

• Pyjamas and tooth brushing 

• Gentle storytelling or reading 

• Short reflection or emotional check-in 

• A calming spiritual practice or prayer 

Spiritual Insight 

Night-time is a moment of rest and reflection in Islamic tradition. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Furqaan (25), Verse 47: 

And it is He (Allah Almighty) Who has designated for you the night as a cover (for respite), and sleep for your rejuvenation; and designated the day for re-energising (the Earth with automated light energy). 

This reflects the divine design of calm at the day’s end, and families benefit from shaping their routines in harmony with this rhythm. 

It is recorded in Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 812, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught short Duas before sleep, and would recite Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah Al-Naas over himself and his family at night. 

Incorporating these calming practices into bedtime adds a spiritual aspect to the child’s feeling of tranquilly. A brief prayer or short saying after storytime emphasises that sleep is not a disruption but rather a form of trust, and that tranquilly is both a blessing and a skill developed through practice.