When your toddler is 1 to 2 years old, she may begin resisting going to sleep at bedtime. You may have gotten into the habit of nursing your baby to sleep, which becomes more difficult as she enters her toddler years. Whatever the reason, it can be frustrating to everyone in the household when your child refuses to go to bed peacefully. It is important to remain calm during this trying time, and to consistently and patiently help your child learn to go to sleep at bedtime.
Step 1
Create a relaxing bedtime routine for your toddler. For many parents, this includes a bath, brushing teeth and reading a bedtime story. Do not let this routine take too long; keep it brief and pleasant, but make it clear that it's time to settle down and get ready for sleeping.
Step 2
Make sure that your child is comfortable. Dress your child in warm pajamas in case he kicks off his blanket. Consider providing your child a spill-proof cup or bottle of water in case he gets thirsty.
Step 3
Lay your child down in her crib or toddler bed, give her a kiss, and let her know that it is time for her to go to sleep. Give her her favorite stuffed animal, and turn on a lullaby CD if that is part of your routine. Leave the room.
Step 4
Return to your toddler's bedroom if he cries for you. Pleasantly lay him back down, without picking him up, pat his back for a minute, and tell him that it is time for sleeping.
Step 5
Repeat step 4 as necessary until your child stops calling for you and falls asleep. Remain consistent and calm. You may need to return to her bedroom many times the first several nights, but after a while, your toddler will realize that you are not going to pick her up, lay with her or take her out of her room, and should adjust to the sleeping routine.
Tips and Warnings
- If your toddler is continuously crying for you, do not leave him alone for more than 5 minutes at a time. Go in every 5 minutes to assure him that you are still there, then leave the room. Continue to make a small amount of normal noise while your child is getting settled in her bed. This will assure her that you are still close by, and will get her used to falling asleep in conditions that are not completely silent.
- If your child is awakening more often than usual, or seems to be having nightmares or night terrors, discuss this with his pediatrician.
Things You'll Need
- Crib or toddler bed
- Spill-proof cup (optional)
- Favorite stuffed animal
