We all know the bedtime routine: pajamas, teeth, one more drink of water, one more story, and if your baby's now a toddler.. somehow… another 20 minutes of negotiating.
But there’s another thing competing for our attention at bedtime that we don’t always think about: our phones.
That’s why we love the idea of a Phone Parking Spot.
What Is a Phone Parking Spot?
It’s exactly what it sounds like: a designated place where everyone in the family “parks” their phone before the bedtime routine begins.
It could be a basket on the kitchen counter, a charging station, or even a little sign that says “Phones Park Here.” (we personally love Coilie!)
The important part isn’t where the phones go. It’s what happens when they do.
For the next 30 minutes, the phone isn’t part of bedtime.
No checking email.
No scrolling.
No answering one last text.
No mindlessly reaching for it while you're rocking your child or your child is telling you about their day.
Just you, your kids, and the bedtime routine.
Why It Works
Bedtime is one of the few moments in the day when parents and kids are naturally together.
But being in the same room isn’t necessarily the same as being present.
When your phone is sitting next to you, it’s incredibly easy to get distracted. A notification pops up. You check the time. You see a text. You open one app and suddenly five minutes are gone.
Parking your phone removes the temptation.
It also sends your kids a pretty powerful message:
“You have my attention.”
That may be one of the simplest ways to make bedtime feel less like a chore and more like connection.
Make It a Family Rule
The best part is that the Phone Parking Spot doesn’t have to be just for parents.
If your kids are old enough to have phones or tablets, everyone can participate.
Make it part of the routine:
Phones parked.
Teeth brushed.
Pajamas on.
Family time begins.
Suddenly, putting the phone away becomes part of the transition from the craziness of the day to winding down together.
And Here’s the Bigger Idea
The goal isn’t to create another parenting rule.
It’s to take something away that gets in the way of what bedtime is really supposed to be about.
Bedtime doesn't have to be perfect. Kids are still going to stall. Someone will forget to brush their teeth. Someone will need water.
But when the distractions are gone, you have a better chance of slowing down, working together, laughing a little, and actually enjoying those final moments of the day.
Because eventually, bedtime battles become bedtime memories.
And you don’t want to remember how many notifications you answered.
You want to remember the goodnight hugs.
With love,
ParentPing 💜