This Viral Bedtime Routine Helps Prevent Morning Wardrobe Meltdowns

Mornings with a little one aren’t always easy. Between the battle to get up, eat breakfast and get out the door, the last thing parents need is one more snag in their morning routine. But as your toddler approaches preschool, they’re likely developing quite the array of ever-changing opinions, including opinions on what to wear.

After months spent navigating morning wardrobe meltdowns with his 5-year-old daughter, one dad decided to take a new approach. In a now-viral TikTok video posted by Cindy Camponovo her husband turns into part personal stylist, part Shark Tank hopeful as he pitches four different perfectly put-together outfits to his daughter.

“I’m going to pick out four outfits for you tomorrow morning. So, we’re going to pick one now, but we don’t have to fight,” he says to his daughter. “First up: An adorable “flower power” style outfit with some matching Nikes. I have Polo prep with matching navy loafers. I have a beautiful pearl option with Barbie. Okay? And last but not least, I have cool kid on the block with skinny jeans, BAPE sweater and matching red shoes. Please take a look and let me know what’s your choice.”

After considering her choices, the 5-year-old, already dressed in pink-striped matching pajamas, decides on the flower power outfit. But before it’s time for bed Dad makes sure that’s her final choice and asks her to shake on it. “And you’re going to lock it in? So no arguing in the morning guys?” Camponovo asks.“No, no arguing tomorrow morning. Okay. This is recorded for quality assurance, okay?” dad jokes.

Parents and users in the comments were quick to chime in with appreciation for the nightly routine and Dad’s fantastic taste. “I need her dad to come to my house & pick some outfits for me because dad has some good taste,” joked one user. “Legit for real what’s needed with this age range lol. My daughter is very opinionated about her outfits!!” added a parent. “Not even just outfits buuut he has the outfit preset names,” applauded another user.

A few commenters were quick to point out that the routine wasn’t just fun and frilly, but could really mean all the difference to anxious little ones who could use a little extra bonding time, routine and love before the school day. “As someone who struggled with anxiety a lot even as a kiddo… this would have been so helpful to help me mentally prepare for my day at school. I do this now as an adult but love implementing early,” noted one user.

It’s no secret that a good nighttime routine can make all the difference. Check out these top tips from pediatricians and sleep consultants on when and how to create a routine that works for you and your kiddo.