Sleepy Squares™ A Bedtime Sensory Visual Routine

Sleepy Squares™

A play-based routine that helps kids connect & calm their brain and body for sleep.

Sleepy Squares™ turns regulating sensory activities into a simple game or easy to follow visual that helps children organize their bodies, regulate their nervous system, and transition into sleep peacefully.

Created by a pediatric occupational therapist and illustrator, this printable routine uses movement, connection, and calming activities to help your child wind down in a way that actually works for their brain and body.

You can toss bean bags onto the squares to choose activities or simply lay them out as a visual bedtime routine and move through them step-by-step.

What’s Included

• 20 illustrated bedtime activity cards organized by regulation needs to help your child wind down and feel safe before sleep

• 4 Red Cards – Meet Sensory Needs

High-energy activities that help release extra movement and prepare the body to slow down

• 4 Green Cards – Calm the Body

Soothing activities that help the nervous system settle and transition toward sleep

• 4 Blue Cards – Connection & Safety

Co-regulation activities that strengthen connection and help children feel secure at bedtime

• 6 Routine Cards

Visual reminders for common bedtime steps (bath, brush teeth, pajamas, books, etc.)

• 2 Blank Cards

Customize with routines unique to your family

• Instructions sheet with OT tips, problem solving support, and different ways to use

Why Parents Love It

✔ Helps children release leftover energy before bed and supporting a smooth transition from a high arousal to calm arousal

✔ Supports emotional regulation and connection

✔ Turns bedtime into a playful routine instead of a power struggle

✔ Flexible — use as a game or visual routine

Perfect For

• Ages 2-6 years old

• Kids who get a burst of energy at bedtime

• Children who struggle to wind down

• Creating a predictable, calming bedtime rhythm

Details

• Instant PDF digital download

• Print at home

• Follow instructions sheet to use for a sensory routine visual guide or use in the form of a game to decrease resistance at bedtime (more details on instruction sheet)

Disclaimers

Sleepy Squares activities are created by a pediatric occupational therapist to promote movement, body awareness, and regulation to prepare the nervous system for sleep. Always supervise children and adapt activities to your child’s abilities and comfort level.

Illustration and artwork copyright ©️ 2026 Taylor Peek. All rights reserved. All materials are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced, redistributed, or resold in any format without written permission from the creators.