If you’ve ever tried to go from giggles to goodnight in 15 minutes, you’ll know: winding down after playtime is an art.
After a busy session of messy play, nappy-free time or bouncing around on the playmat, your little one is often anything but calm. And that makes sense – play is exciting, stimulating, and a healthy part of development. But when it’s time to transition from action to rest, things can get tricky.
So how do we help our kids shift gears?
Here are a few gentle, sensory-based ways to create a smoother, more peaceful wind-down after play – with a few parent-friendly tools that can help.
1. Start with a slow-down signal
If your child’s been jumping, rolling or painting up a storm on their Rudie Nudie mat, the idea of bedtime might feel abrupt. Instead of a sudden stop, give them a slow-down cue – something consistent and familiar. It might be:
- Turning off bright lights and switching to a lamp
- Playing soft music or nature sounds
- Bringing out a “wind-down toy” they only use in the evenings
This creates a rhythm they learn to expect: play is finishing, calm is coming.
2. Transition through touch
For young children, sensory input is a powerful regulator. That means the right textures and physical sensations can actually help settle their nervous system.
Try:
- A soft blanket or favourite cuddle toy
- Gentle massage or back rubs on the playmat
- Warmth – like a heat pack (or parent cuddle) on their lap
If your child is lying on a Rudie Nudie mat, use that as your base. Stay low and connected, and let the physical closeness help them unwind.
3. Introduce a calming presence
We spoke to our friends at Sleep Dreams, who shared that a cuddly, calming toy can be a great tool for helping kids transition to rest – especially one that taps into the body’s natural rhythm.
One new product they recommend is KarmKip™, a soft, plush dog (or koala) that gently “breathes” in and out. The subtle rise and fall mimics slow, calming breath patterns – the kind used in guided relaxation – which can help children regulate their own breath, settle their body, and feel less alone as they wind down.
It’s designed to be a sensory sleep aid, but it’s just as perfect for sitting on the mat post-play, especially for kids who need a bit more help shifting into quiet time.
4. Create a wind-down ritual
Children respond well to structure and repetition. A simple, consistent sequence they can follow each night makes the transition easier for everyone. Try something like:
- 10 minutes of playmat time
- Calm toy cuddle & music
- Bath & nappy change
- Temperature appropriate sleepwear
- Storytime
- Lights down, cuddle, sleep
You don’t need a rigid schedule – just a familiar rhythm that brings comfort through predictability.
5. Give it time
Even the best transitions aren’t always smooth. Some nights your little one will be bouncing off the mat until late. That’s okay. Rest isn’t just about sleep – it’s about connection, security, and letting their body and brain feel safe to let go.
If you’ve set the tone, made the space soft and soothing, and brought in calming cues, you’ve done more than enough.
From wild play to peaceful sleep, there’s a journey in between – and it starts right there on the mat.
By creating calming rituals, offering sensory support, and choosing tools that encourage your child’s natural rhythms, you’ll help their body and mind know it’s time to rest.
Whether it’s a warm towel, a quiet corner, or a soft toy that breathes beside them, these little details make a big difference.
If you’re looking for a beautiful, sensory-friendly companion to help with wind-down time, you can learn more about the KarmKip™ Bionic Breathing Dog at Sleep Dreams.
