Has bedtime for your toddler or young child become a time filled with fears, tears or anger instead of soothing words and cuddles? If so, you're not alone. Family ideas about what to do vary depending on parents' relationships and parents' discipline.

Children Fight Sleep for Many Reasons:

  • Sleep needs can change, depending on the child's activity level, general health, and growth rate. Many children at age 2 or 3 are ready to give up daytime naps-almost. It can be tricky to balance naps with getting to bed on time. 
  • Children this age are busy, curious and active. It always seems there's just one more thing they want to do before bedtime. Your child will need your help with winding down to a more relaxed, quieter mood. 
  • Your child may simply be trying to spend more time with you. Finding time to be together is tough when both parents work or have several children to care for.

Fortunately, all these needs can be met by starting a bedtime routine. This allows plenty of time for the child to relax and know what to expect, which means he may be less likely to fight going to bed.

Bedtime Routines that Work:

  • Begin at the same time each night, even on weekends. Do what's best for your child -- the order or choice of activity doesn't matter, as long as it's consistent.
  • Make bedtime fun, something to look forward to each night.
  • Should be the shortest, simplest set of activities you can plan.
  • Allow for small changes now and then. You might have a shorter routine for times when you're in a hurry or are feeling more tired than usual.
  • Can be done by more than one adult, in case one parent is sick or busy.
  • Satisfy a child's physical needs. See that he isn't hungry, thirsty, or won't need to get up and use the potty. Give him water in a cup that won't leak.
  • May involve a "lovey," or a favorite object to snuggle with. This can be a stuffed animal, blanket, or even a piece of your clothing. Although loveys can get lost, they can really help a child to settle in for the night, even away from home.

Bedtime doesn't have to be a battle. Knowing your child and his needs can help you set up a regular routine your child can expect. Teach him that settling into bed can bring loving rewards, and you might find that it's one of the very best parts of your day.

 

 

Pamela Kock is a freelance writer from Liberty Township, Ohio.