Zippy Pajama Hacks - How to Easily Zip Up Your Toddler's Sleepwear

The Struggle and Triumph of Zippy Pajamas

As a parent, getting your little one into their pajamas at night can be quite the adventure. Those zippy pajamas seem like such a great idea when you're blearily shopping at 3am online after yet another night of minimal sleep. The little zipper goes all the way from chin to toe! So easy, right? Just zip them up and you're done! However, if you've ever actually tried to get a recalcitrant, wiggly child into a zippy pajama, you know that it's anything but easy.

The Epic Bedtime Battle

At bedtime, what should be a peaceful, snuggly routine can quickly turn into an epic battle. You lay out the zippy pajamas, excited to get your little one ready for sleep quickly and effortlessly. But when you go to pop them into the jammies, immediately their little legs stiffen and twist, their arms flail, and their head thrashes from side to side. No matter how you tug and cajole, you simply cannot line up that zipper. And somehow, no matter what contortions you put yourself in, you can't seem to manage to wrap your baby burrito-style tight enough to get their limbs under control.

You long for the footed pajamas with snaps as you struggle in vain with the zipper. Why did you think this would be a good idea? You have to pin down flailing limbs while somehow dragging the zipper up inch by inch. All the while your sweet babe is getting more and more upset by this relentless encasing procedure. Maybe you abandoned traditional snaps for a zippy thinking it would be quicker and easier. Oh how wrong you were.

Hack the Zippy Pajama Struggle

But don't despair weary parent. There are some tricks you can use to hack the zippy pajama struggle. With a few simple techniques, you can outsmart even the most uncooperative toddler and win the bedtime battle.

Catch Them When They're Sleepy

Timing is everything when it comes to zippy pajama success. Wait until your little one is maximally sleepy and mellow for pajama time. If you try to put zippy PJs on a hyper, energetic kid, you're just asking for trouble. Save the zippies for later in the bedtime routine when they are winding down. Opt for a simple nightgown or pull-on pants when they are still wired.

Make a Game of It

Turn pajama time into a fun game for your toddler. Have them lie down on the floor and pretend to be a "zipper train". Encourage them to lie still like a train while you zip them up. Or have them step into the PJs and become a "zipper robot". Make robotic arm movements while you zip. Adding play into the routine can help diffuse resistance.

Bribe Them

Your sneaky toddler knows exactly how to make pajama time difficult. But you can out-sneak them by offering enticing bribes. Promise an extra bedtime snuggle or an extra bedtime story if they cooperate with getting into their zippy without a struggle. Have a special stuffed animal give "kisses" up and down the zipper as you go. Up the ante with bigger rewards for consecutive peaceful nights.

Take Breaks

If your child gets upset and starts writhing around when you try to zip, take a break. Step back and calm everyone down. Try again in a minute. Taking short zipping breaks can help reset and make sure you both stay relaxed. Don't try to force the zipper when tensions escalate.

Give Them a "Job"

Keep little hands occupied during the zipping process by giving your toddler a special "job". Let them hold a favorite toy or book while you zip. Or have them hold the bottom of the zipper in place while you zip up. Giving them a task focuses their attention and keeps them from grabbing at you.

Choose the Right Zippy Pajamas

Not all zippy pajamas are created equal when it comes to bedtime ease. Choosing the right zipper style and fit can make a huge difference in how well your bedtime zipping goes. Here are some pajama picks that can help streamline the struggle:

Size Up

Oversized pajamas may look adorably baggy but excess fabric actually makes it harder to zip rambunctious toddlers. Buy zippies in the correct current size without extra room. Pajamas that are more fitted allow you to more easily position limbs for smoother zipping.

Two Way Zipper

Double your zipper chances with PJs featuring a two way zipper. If one direction proves too tricky, simply flip upside down and try zipping the other way. Two way zippers also allow you to unzip from the bottom if needed.

Convertible Zipper

Convertible zippy pajamas take the two way zipper up another notch. Not only can you zip up or down, but you can also unzip and re-zip one leg at a time. This allows you total flexibility to get legs or arms in and reposition as needed.

Zipper with Flap

A zipper with an overlapping flap provides another handy hack for stubborn zipping. The flap helps hold wiggly limbs in while zipping and covers the metal zipper from sensitive skin. Flaps also help further seal out drafts for extra cozy sleep.

Laser Cut Zipper

For super smooth zipping, look for jammies with a "laser cut" zipper. The seamless design prevents snags and catches as you zip up. No wrestling to un-snag the zipper teeth halfway through! The laser cut also lies flat and comfortable against skin without edges.

Stay Positive Through the Zippy Struggle

While choosing the right pajamas can help, even the best zippies come with challenges. Facing pajama time with patience and creativity is key. Stay calm in the face of zipper frustration. Go with the zipping flow, taking breaks as needed. Keep it lighthearted with fun zippy games. And reward your little one for working with you at this tiring time of day.

With the right approach, the battle of the zippy pajamas does not have to be an epic nightly struggle. A few clever hacks can help you both look forward to the cozy feeling of zipping up at the end of a long day. So take a deep breath, grab your trusty two way pajamas, and get creative. With teamwork and humor, you can make zipping up a sleepy toddler a sweet and special part of your bedtime bonding ritual.

FAQs

What are the best pajama styles for difficult to dress toddlers?

Look for zipper pajamas with features like two-way zippers, convertible zippers, zipper flaps, and laser cut zippers. These make it easier to maneuver restless little arms and legs into the pajamas.

What pajama size should I get for my toddler?

Oversized or loose fitting pajamas can be harder to get on a squirmy toddler. Choose pajamas in your child's current size without extra room for the easiest on and off while zipping.

How can I make pajama time fun for my toddler?

Turn it into a game! Have them lay still like a "zipper train" while you zip or make robotic arms as a "zipper robot." Offer rewards like an extra story for cooperation. Give them a "job" holding part of the zipper.

What if my toddler gets upset when I try to zip their pajamas?

Take breaks to reset and calm down if needed. Go slowly and don't force the zipper. Stay positive and relaxed - your toddler will pick up on your emotions. Offer hugs, kisses or encouragement as you go.

Should I buy special pajamas for bedtime struggles?

The right pajamas can make all the difference! Prioritize easy-to-use zippers and a fitted, non-constricting fit. Don't forget convertible and two-way zippers. Investing in quality zippies pays off at bedtime.