Once your baby starts moving around on two feet, the "toddling" stage, it can be difficult to keep him in bed. Couple that with the transition from a crib to a bed, and nighttime can be a disaster. Fortunately, if you consistently apply a few tips and tricks, you'll soon have your toddler fast asleep on a regular basis without frustration.
Step 1
Set a consistent routine for nighttime. A soothing bath, comfortable pajamas, a story, a soft lullaby and a kiss goodnight help a child understand that it's time for sleep when done regularly. It may take a few nights to establish the routine, but toddlers thrive on consistency, which helps make a nighttime routine even more critical at this age.
Step 2
Don't watch television before bed. It may seem that your toddler is soothed and still, but television is very wakeful. The flickering light that sends the television picture actually impacts the human brain to wake up, notes an April 2008 lecture from the National Institutes of Health.
Step 3
Provide a night-light. Toddlers' brains work very hard to piece together the day, and nighttime can be a time of anxiety. Help a child manage that anxiety by providing a night-light that helps keep the dark at bay. On the other hand, the NIH suggests making sure that her room has darkened shades to avoid early wake-ups with the dawning light.
Step 4
Run him around. Children need to exercise to be tired at bedtime. If he doesn't appear tired, try two things: a half hour of outside play before dinner that includes lots of running and an earlier bedtime. It may seem contrary to logic, but an earlier bedtime helps avoid that second wind of energy that makes bedtime a battle.
Step 5
Provide a transitional object. A plush toy or blanket provides a comfort to a child when the parent leaves the room, minimizing a toddler's need to get up and find you.
Step 6
Don't reward her if she gets up. Children love attention, even negative attention. Remain calm and walk your child back to bed without engaging in a lengthy debate or conversation.
Things You'll Need
- Night-light
- Plush toy or blanket
