Building healthy habits in early childhood starts at home, and it can begin with something as simple as a bedtime routine.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) shares an easy approach families can remember: Brush, Book, Bed. This routine connects teeth brushing, reading and sleep into one calm, nurturing end-of-day ritual.
The AAP offers free, printable tools to help you get started. And First Things First (FTF) has resources to support your family at every step.
Step 1: Brush
Each night, help your child brush their teeth before bed. The last thing that touches their teeth should be a toothbrush—not a bottle, cup or snack.
Even before your baby’s first tooth comes in, you can begin with good habits:
- Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, soft cloth.
- Once teeth appear, brush twice a day with a small amount of age-appropriate toothpaste.
- As your child grows, help them learn to brush their teeth on their own while you supervise.
Early dental care supports more than healthy teeth. It helps prevent pain, supports clear speech and builds confidence.\
Step 2: Book
Reading together during your child’s bedtime routine does more than prepare them for sleep. It builds early literacy skills, strengthens your bond and supports healthy brain development.
Just a few minutes of reading each night can:
- Build your child’s vocabulary
- Support school readiness
- Create calm, connected moments at the end of the day
If you’re looking for support or ideas, these resources can help:
- Building your home library – Resources to help you access books for your child.
- 10 tips to help your child fall in love with reading – Tips for making reading a part of your family’s everyday life.
- Read On Arizona – Tips to help families of babies and toddlers build strong language skills through everyday conversation.
- Reach Out and Read – Book lists, reading videos and more.
You do not need a big library to make reading a part of your routine. Your local library, book swaps and community programs are great ways to find free or low-cost books.
Step 3: Bed
A regular bedtime routine helps children feel safe and secure. It also supports healthy sleep, which is essential for growth, learning and family well-being.
When bedtime happens around the same time each night, children are more likely to:
- Fall asleep faster
- Stay asleep longer
- Wake up feeling rested
Helpful resources to support sleep include:
- Healthy sleep habits: How many hours does your child need?
- Safe sleep for your baby
- Toddler sleep
- How a screen-free bedtime can help your toddler sleep better
- Physical activity helps babies get more sleep
Simple steps—like turning off screens before bed and keeping lights low—can make a big difference.
Healthy routines build happy families
Healthy teeth and healthy routines go hand in hand. When families use the Brush, Book, Bed approach each night, they support their child’s language development, learning and sleep all at once.
For extra support, download the AAP’s printable tools to hang up at home or share with caregivers. And remember, you’re not alone on this journey.
- Visit the AZ Parenting Guide for more trusted tips on health, safety, child development and beyond.
- Call or text the Birth to 5 Helpline if you have questions about your child’s growth, behavior or daily routines.
Small steps at bedtime can lead to big benefits for your child—today and for years to come.
