Got an overtired, fussy baby? A toddler who won’t go to sleep? You may need a bedtime routine. Structured activities create a sense of security and safety, which can help your child head for dreamland, according to Jenn Berman, PsyD, author of Superbaby: 12 Ways to Give Your Child a Head Start in the First 3 Years.

It’s best to start a sleep ritual during your child’s first three months, says Dr. Berman—but better late than never. An effective routine is predictable, calming and consistent, ends at the same time each night and includes transitions and gentle reminders. Your kid should enjoy it, too. Designate a 15- to 60-minute period nightly for set activities like a bath, teeth brushing, a story and a good-night kiss. For a baby, it might be a diaper change, massage, feeding and lullaby. Maintaining the same order of events will help establish a comforting routine.

Of course, late meetings, last-minute deadlines and occasional date nights can make it tough to stick to a bedtime schedule. So write it down and post it in a visible place so your caregiver can see it and stick to it when you’re not home. Tempting as it may be for her to wait up for a story from mommy, do your best to keep your child on a regular timetable so she’ll get the rest she needs and be ready for lots of snuggles in the morning.