If you have been finding yourself fighting with your toddler to go to sleep, you're not alone. Battles over bedtime are a common frustration for many parents. Although it may seem as though nothing you could do would ever convince your headstrong toddler to go to sleep without a fight, there are things that can be done to do just that.
Step 1
Learn how much sleep your toddler needs. Although each toddler requires a different amount of sleep, the average toddler should get about 10 to 13 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period, according to KidsHealth.org. Use the guidelines to create a sleep and nap schedule that will work for your lifestyle, yet still ensure that your child gets the appropriate amount of sleep.
Step 2
Create a bedtime routine. Toddlers thrive on predictable routines and schedules, and will go to bed much more easily if they have a consistent routine. Reading, bathtime, eating a snack, singing lullabies or just cuddling are a few ideas of things that could be incorporated into a bedtime routine. KidsHealth.org recommends keeping the routine short and simple, and letting your toddler have some choices about what should be part of the routine.
Step 3
Set the mood. Ensure that your toddler has a proper sleeping environment. Her bedroom should be dark, quiet and free from turned-on electrical items like computers or televisions. Even the temperature of the room can influence how easily your child is able to fall asleep, according to Ashley Merryman of New York Magazine, who states that anything above a neutral temperature can cause your toddler's circadian rhythm to get out of whack and make it more difficult for her to fall and stay asleep. AskDrSears.com suggests that a room temperature of about 70 degrees and a relative humidity of about 50 percent is most conducive to sleep.
Step 4
Follow through. Toddlers want to assert their independence and may not be willing to go to bed without a fight at first. If your toddler gets out of bed, calmly tell her that it's bedtime and return her to her bed. Repeat the process over and over until she stays put and falls asleep. While the process of putting your toddler back into bed every five minutes is not how most parents would like to spend their night, following through consistently will send the message that you are serious, and it will pay off in the long term. However, caving in or deviating from your bedtime routine even once may undo all of your previous hard work and teaches your toddler that if she protests long enough, you will give in to her demands. Stick to your guns, be patient, and your toddler will start going to sleep on her own.
Tips and Warnings
- Having a favorite stuff animal or security blanket may provide comfort to your toddler and help in the process of getting him to sleep. Some parents find that white noise machines or loud fans also help their todder fall asleep and stay asleep better, particularly when added to an already loud environment.
- If you have tried everything and your toddler still is having trouble sleeping, talk to a pediatrician to make sure a sleep disorder or other medical condition is not to blame. If your pediatrician is unable to provide good answers, consider consulting a qualified sleep specialist.
