225. Rethinking Bedtime Mantras: When "You Are Safe" Backfires
Tue Feb 03 2026
Many parents use bedtime mantras to help their child feel calm and secure at night. In theory, it's a beautiful idea—predictable, soothing language meant to support rest. But what if the words we're using are actually doing the opposite?
In this episode, Allison explores a bedtime phrase that's become incredibly common—"you are safe"—and explains why, for some children, especially sensitive or anxious ones, this well-intentioned mantra can unintentionally increase bedtime worry.
Allison breaks down how a child's brain processes language at bedtime, why timing and repetition matter, and how certain phrases can shift the brain into "monitoring mode" instead of rest mode. She also shares a personal story that illustrates when reassurance is necessary—and when it's better to let the brain settle without added prompts.
You'll learn:
Why some bedtime mantras can increase anxiety instead of reducing it
How a child's brain interprets language right before sleep
When reassurance about safety is helpful—and when it isn't
Simple, comforting alternatives to common bedtime phrases
How small language shifts can make a big difference at bedtime
If bedtime has started to feel harder, or your child seems more anxious at night despite a consistent routine, this episode offers a gentle, practical reframe that may help sleep feel easier again.
Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube
Looking for expert guidance on your child's sleep? Allison offers two free age-specific guides to help you discover how much sleep kids need to thrive—at any age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old
From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use.
Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place.
Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics.
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On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review."
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Many parents use bedtime mantras to help their child feel calm and secure at night. In theory, it's a beautiful idea—predictable, soothing language meant to support rest. But what if the words we're using are actually doing the opposite? In this episode, Allison explores a bedtime phrase that's become incredibly common—"you are safe"—and explains why, for some children, especially sensitive or anxious ones, this well-intentioned mantra can unintentionally increase bedtime worry. Allison breaks down how a child's brain processes language at bedtime, why timing and repetition matter, and how certain phrases can shift the brain into "monitoring mode" instead of rest mode. She also shares a personal story that illustrates when reassurance is necessary—and when it's better to let the brain settle without added prompts. You'll learn: Why some bedtime mantras can increase anxiety instead of reducing it How a child's brain interprets language right before sleep When reassurance about safety is helpful—and when it isn't Simple, comforting alternatives to common bedtime phrases How small language shifts can make a big difference at bedtime If bedtime has started to feel harder, or your child seems more anxious at night despite a consistent routine, this episode offers a gentle, practical reframe that may help sleep feel easier again. Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube Looking for expert guidance on your child's sleep? Allison offers two free age-specific guides to help you discover how much sleep kids need to thrive—at any age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube