Tips for Enforcing a Toddler's Bedtime

Once an infant transitions to the toddler stage and no longer requires nighttime feedings, a routine bedtime can be established. Parents can expect toddlers to resist the new bedtime routine in the beginning. If, however, parents remain firm in enforcing the new bedtime, their children will soon go to sleep without a quarrel.

1. Be consistent with your bedtime routine.
If you give your toddler a bath at 7:30 pm, tuck her in to bed at 8:00 pm, and read her a short story before turning out the lights on the first night. Repeat this same schedule each night thereafter. The child will be see the pattern and know what is expected of her.

2. Allow your child to sleep with a security item.
Some children need to cuddle their favorite teddy bear, or hold their baby blanket. Your child will not grow up and go to college with these items, so there is no harm in putting the toddler to bed with a special toy if it makes him feel safe.

3. Turn your child's bedroom lights to the dim setting.
If you don't have settings on your lights, you can use a nightlight, or you can leave the bedroom door open a crack to let the light from the hallway in. Many children fight bedtime because they are scared of the dark. Providing a low-light source will give your child just enough light to see everything around them, but not so much light that he can't go to sleep.

4. Place your child back in bed each time he or she gets up after you finish your bedtime routine.
Many children will test their parents to see if they are serious about the new bedtime rule. This may last for a few days, but when the child sees her parent is serious about her staying in bed, she will know she won't be able to get away with staying up late. Bedtime routines will begin to go smoothly after that.

5. Make a reward chart.
Give your toddler a sticker to place under each day that rewards him or her for going to bed without arguing and staying in bed until morning. When your toddler's chart collects several stickers in a row, reward him with a small prize. This could be a toy, ice cream cone or an extra trip to the park. Some children respond well to establishing a bedtime routine when an incentive is used.

Note: Make sure you do not schedule your toddler's nap time too close to the new bedtime.

References:
Sleep for Kids: Understanding Children's Sleep Habits
Pregnancy Info: Toddler Sleep