Mornings and bedtimes often take the biggest hit after the holidays — and this episode explains why.

Ashley breaks down what’s happening in children’s brains during transitions, why routines fall apart before they improve, and how parents and carers can support calmer starts and smoother evenings without constant battles.

This is a practical, reassuring episode for families who are feeling stretched at the bookends of the day.

In this episode, we cover:

Why transitions are hard for children’s nervous systems
What the prefrontal cortex needs to function well in the morning
Why bedtime resistance increases when children are overtired
The role of safety and predictability in sleep
Why “trying harder” rarely helps tired brains

Practical takeaways:

How to build resilience into mornings without rushing or shouting
Simple changes that reduce decision-fatigue
Why protecting the wind-down matters more than bedtime itself
Body-based strategies that help children settle at night
Language that reduces pressure and supports sleep

Key reminder:

You don’t need perfect mornings or peaceful bedtimes.
You need predictable cues, calmer rhythms, and fewer power struggles.

🎧 This episode is especially helpful after school holidays or periods of change.

Link to buy weighted blankets Ashley spoke about – Kids weight: Weighted Blanket - Kids

Teen & Adult Weight: Weighted Blanket - Teens

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction: Why Mornings and Bedtimes Go Off the Rails

00:29 Understanding the January Struggle

02:11 The Brain After the Holidays: Why Transitions Are Hard

04:31 Why Mornings Are So Hard

07:25 Building Resilient Mornings: Practical Tips

17:35 Why Bedtimes Fall Apart After the Holidays

19:25 Creating Calmer Bedtimes: Practical Tips

26:21 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Parents

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