Finding an effective strategy for getting your toddler to sleep in his own bed can be difficult. Some toddlers cry, scream or whine when ordered to bed, adding to parental stress. Once an effective strategy is found and employed, however, the result is more quality sleep for both the parents and the toddler. Consistency is important. When a regimen is first implemented, there may be an adjustment period. But soon the toddler will be sleeping in his own bed.
Step 1
Create a bedroom environment that is conducive to sleep. Distracting music and sounds help reinforce a toddler's notion that bedtime doesn't necessarily mean it's time to go to sleep.
Step 2
Decide on an appropriate bedtime for the toddler. The time should be adhered to every night. This will teach the toddler that bedtime is the time to go to sleep and that negotiations won't be tolerated.
Step 3
Give your toddler a security item. A stuffed toy or a blanket will give him a sense of comfort and safety.
Step 4
Teach your toddler a bedtime routine. This can include things such as a bedtime snack, putting on his pajamas, washing his face and brushing his teeth.
Step 5
Put the toddler to bed and spend a short period of time nearby to show him everything is all right. This time can be used to read her a book or to say nighttime prayers.
Step 6
Wish your toddler a good night and turn out the lights. The bedroom should be dark to help him fall asleep.
Step 7
Return your toddler to bed if she gets out of bed. Do this calmly. The first time a toddler gets out of bed, parents should explain that getting out of bed will not be tolerated. Later attempts should be met with silent returns to bed.
Step 8
Repeat the bedtime routine every night.
Tips and Warnings
- Toddlers may say they cannot go to sleep as an excuse to get out of bed. Sometimes, they actually may have problems going to sleep because they have had a long afternoon nap. Shortening naptime can help a toddler sleep at night.
- Parents may go to sleep and wake up with their toddlers in bed with them. If this happens, toddlers should be calmly but immediately returned to their own beds.
