My Nightlight
Parent creates a comforting bedtime routine using gentle light play and soothing words to help baby feel secure and in control during the transition to sleep. The agent coaches the parent to observe self-soothing behaviors, emotional regulation, and attachment responses during this calming social ritual.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Baby in a calm, pre-sleep state — in pajamas, in dim lighting. Parent sitting comfortably with baby in lap or lying beside. A soft light source (nightlight, dim lamp, or flashlight with hand covering) nearby. Quiet environment.
How it works
- 1~30s
Start by turning on your soft light source. Hold your child close and gently point to the light together. Say in a soothing voice, 'Look at our nightlight. It's here to keep us safe.' Watch your child's face and body. Does they seem to calm when looking at the light? Does their breathing slow or muscles relax? Tell me what you notice.
Watch for: Baby uses the nightlight as a calming tool — showing relaxation, focused attention, or decreased distress when looking at the light.
- 2~35s
Now slowly move the light around in gentle arcs while keeping your child close. Say, 'The light is dancing for you.' Watch how your child responds to you during this shared moment. Does they look back and forth between you and the light? Does they snuggle closer or reach for you? These are signs your child is checking in with you for security.
Watch for: Baby seeks proximity or reassurance from parent during the calming activity, showing secure attachment behaviors.
- 3~30s
For our final step, gradually dim the light (or cover it with your hand) while saying, 'The light is getting sleepy, just like us.' Watch how your child handles this transition. Does they protest or fuss? Accept it calmly? Try to turn it back on? How your child copes with this small change tells us about their growing ability to handle transitions.
Watch for: Baby shows coping strategies during the transition from light to dark — acceptance, mild protest, or attempts to control the change.