Welcome to Toddlerhood!
As most parents know bedtime with a toddler is a very different ball game then with a baby. You have a little mini who is coming into their independence, voice and feeling a lot of emotions with no filter. To keep bedtime progressive and still end in a calm manor here are some tips.
Follow Through with Routine:
Your child’s routine will mature with them. Let them feel involved in their routine to encourage a positive outcome as the sequence plays on. An example routine would be walk around the block, bath, pjs, teeth-brushing, story-time and goodnight cuddles.
Set Boundaries:
It is important to be consistent with your routine and set those limitations ahead of time to avoid any stall tactics.
1..2..3.. Breathe:
We all begin the bedtime routine with hopes that it will go as planned and tear free but sometimes there are set backs. Try to keep the focus on getting to bed and don’t get stuck on other small battles along the way.
Use A Bedtime Light:
It isn’t uncommon for toddlers to develop a fear of the dark. Letting your child sleep with a night-light or a red light helps keeps the monsters away. Try to avoid lights that cast shadows as this will only heighten the problem.
Keep Screens at Bay:
I understand that sometimes you just need a few minutes to get things done so turning on the tv is the simplest answer however before bedtime this becomes the number one trigger to tantrums. Try to encourage independent playtime to prevent overstimulation from screen time and getting stuck in the “just 5 more minutes” loop.
Toddler sleep is just as complicated as baby sleep and it can be just as frustrating. Simple tweaks and little changes can help make big changes later on.
Currently struggling with bedtime?
Getting stuck in a power struggle?
I am here to talk and see how I can help you.
contactsoundsleep4bubbies@gmail.com
#toddlerbedtime
