# How do I make a bedtime routine chart for my autistic child?

> Four to six picture steps, the same order every night, and a calm ending that helps the body wind down.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/bedtime-routine-chart
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-28

**Short answer:** A bedtime routine chart shows the steps before sleep as pictures, in the same order every night: for example bath, pajamas, teeth, story, lights out. Keep it to 4 to 6 steps, put it at your child's eye level, and let them move or check off each step. End with the calmest step, and start at the same time each night.

**Key takeaways**
- Use **4 to 6 picture steps**, the **same order** every night.
- Put the chart at **eye level**.
- Let your child **move or check off** each step.
- End with the **calmest step**.

## Why does a bedtime chart help?

Bedtime means stopping play, changing rooms and separating from you. A picture chart makes it predictable, so your child knows exactly what's next and when it ends.[1]

## What steps should I include?

| Step | Picture | Tip |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | Bath or wash | Warm water helps the body wind down |
| 2 | Pajamas | Soft, tag-free clothes |
| 3 | Brush teeth | Same toothbrush and song each night |
| 4 | Toilet | Last stop before bed |
| 5 | Story | One or two, agreed in advance |
| 6 | Lights out | Night light or white noise if it helps |

## How do I use it?

1. **Take photos** of your child doing each step, or use the printable.
2. **Start at the same time** each night.
3. **Point and say** each step: "Pajamas done. Next, teeth."
4. **Let your child finish** each step by moving the picture to "done."
5. **Keep the last steps quiet** and low-light.

**Talk to your doctor if....** your child regularly takes more than an hour to fall asleep, wakes for long periods, or snores loudly. Sleep problems
  are common in autistic children and there's help.
  [2]

Free printable: [Free printable: bedtime routine](https://theautismkit.com/printables/bedtime-routine.pdf)

## What can I try this week?

- [ ] Pick 4 to 6 bedtime steps
- [ ] Print or photograph each step
- [ ] Start at the same time every night

Read next: [How can I help my autistic child sleep better?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/autism-and-sleep)

## Common questions

### How many steps should a bedtime chart have?

Four to six is plenty for most children. Fewer for toddlers.

### When should the routine start?

About 30 to 45 minutes before lights out, at the same time each night, including weekends where you can.

### What if my child still won't sleep?

Sleep problems are common in autistic children. If they continue, talk to your child's doctor.

## Sources

1. AFIRM (UNC Frank Porter Graham): Visual supports evidence-based practice brief. https://afirm.fpg.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/Visual-Supports-Brief-Packet.pdf
2. NHS: Supporting an autistic child. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/autism/supporting-a-child/

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.