Summer Sleep Isn’t a Lost Cause—Even If the Sun’s Still Up and Your Toddler’s Practicing Cartwheels

Jun 18

Let’s set the scene: It’s 8:37 PM. The sun is still beaming like it’s noon in July. Your toddler is shirtless, sticky from two (okay, three) popsicles, and has just declared, “I’m not tired!” while somersaulting across the living room rug.

You glance at the clock, then at the wine.
Summer bedtime. It’s less of a routine and more of a group project with no leader and zero consensus.

But here’s the thing:
You’re not failing.
Your child isn’t broken.
Summer is just… a little lawless.

Why Summer Sleep Goes Off the Rails

Let’s blame the usual suspects:

Endless daylight confuses circadian rhythms—especially the tiny, emotional kind.
Unpredictable schedules (travel, camp, Nana’s house) knock routines off-kilter.
Sensory overload (sun, sand, sugar, sprinkler) can leave kids wired, not tired.
Nervous systems are activated. Yes, yours too.

And if your child has a more sensitive temperament or a complex history? Their internal safety radar is turned way up during transitions. Like, say, a whole seasonal one where naps disappear and boundaries are looser than your beach plans.

The Science-y Truth: Sleep Is a Pattern, Not a Punishment

Little bodies want rhythm. Predictability. Safety. And when the world outside says, “Do everything, stay up late, eat frozen things!”—it’s your job to gently bring back the balance.

Even if bedtime feels like taming the lions at the circus.

5 Trauma-Informed, Totally-Doable Ways to Tame the Summer Sleep Spiral

1. Stick to a consistent routine, not a rigid clock

Your bedtime might shift later—but the steps should stay familiar.
Bath → books → snuggles → lights out.
This predictable flow tells your child’s body: it’s time. Even if it’s still light enough to mow the lawn.

2. Seize the sleepy signals

Look for the lull: glazed eyes, zoning out, that sudden quietness. That’s your portal. Miss it, and your child might catch a second wind that makes espresso look like a nap aid.

3. Get outside early in the day

Morning sun exposure sets the internal clock and builds healthy sleep pressure. Plus, it burns off the zoomies.
Translation: less spinning in circles at 9:00 PM.

4. Nap defensively

Even if naps get patchy, don’t give up. A 30-minute snooze is better than rolling into bedtime with a child who’s overtired and trying to fight you with their socks.

5. Regulate yourself first

Here’s the therapist in me talking: If you’re anxious and bracing for bedtime disaster, your child picks up on that energy. Kids co-regulate with us.
Try a deep breath, a shoulder roll, or—dare I say—a moment of silence before entering the bedtime arena.

And No, “Just Tire Them Out” Doesn’t Always Work

Sure, physical activity helps. But when your child is overstimulated and overtired, they’re more likely to launch into bedtime negotiations, not zonk out peacefully. Sleep isn’t about exhaustion—it’s about regulation.

Gentle Reminder: You’re Allowed to Want Sleep, Too

Wanting your child to sleep doesn’t make you selfish. Wanting some adult time (that isn’t accompanied by background Paw Patrol) is valid. Desiring a life where you’re not whisper-screaming “Go to BED” every night is, dare I say, noble.

When Summer Sleep Gets Too Wild—That’s Where I Come In

I help families find rest again—with curiosity, science, and strategies that respect your child’s nervous system and your need for a break. We bring rhythm to chaos. Calm to cartwheels. And we always—always—leave room for popsicles (and wine).

Need Help? I’ve Got You.

If you’re tired of negotiating bedtime like it’s a hostage situation, or if you just want to know how to not lose your mind every night at 8:45 PM, let’s talk.

Send me a message and tell me what’s going on.

Because yes—even in summer, bedtime can feel dreamy again (see what I did there?)