Choose a predictable order
Try bath or wash-up, pajamas, snack or water, teeth, book, calm page, lights. The order matters because repetition reduces decision fatigue.
Make the replacement calming
Do not swap a fast show for a chaotic craft. Use drawing, sticker matching, breathing cards, read-alouds, or a simple gratitude prompt.
Protect the last thirty minutes
If removing all evening screens feels too hard, start with the final thirty minutes. That single boundary often improves the bedtime transition.
Best next step
Turn the idea into something printable and repeatable so it is ready before the next hard screen-time moment.
Open the Calm-Down Mini JournalQuick questions
What can kids do instead of screens before bed?
Books, calm drawing, simple puzzles, breathing cards, audio stories, and bedtime routine charts are good replacements.