Toddlers are fascinating little beings, aren’t they? Every day, they surprise us with new skills, creative ideas, and an endless supply of energy. It’s an incredible stage of development… until bedtime rolls around!
If you’re the parent of a 2- to 4-year-old, you’re probably familiar with the never-ending bedtime routine:
- “One more story!”
- “I’m thirsty!”
- “Just one more kiss!”
- “I need to go potty!”
Before you know it, what was supposed to be a quick and simple bedtime turns into a drawn-out process filled with endless requests. But why do toddlers do this?
Why Do Toddlers Stall at Bedtime?
Toddlers love testing limits. They quickly realize that the one thing you want most at night is for them to go to sleep… so they use that to their advantage.
It usually starts small:
- One night, they ask for a glass of milk, and you think, “Why not?”
- The next night, they want a glass of milk AND another story.
- A week later, the routine includes milk, two stories, three hugs, and five kisses.
- A month later, you find yourself making pancakes at 10 PM just to get them to bed!
It all happens little by little, and before you know it, you’re stuck in a bedtime routine that’s entirely dictated by your toddler.
How to Stop the Bedtime Stalling Cycle
The good news? There’s a simple solution to stop bedtime from turning into a never-ending negotiation.
The 2 Golden Rules for a Peaceful Bedtime
- Establish a short and predictable bedtime routine (for example: brush teeth, read one story, give a goodnight kiss, and lights out).
- Stick to it—no exceptions!
Sounds easy, right? The reality is that your toddler will test you in every possible way, trying to push boundaries. They may cry, protest, or come up with creative excuses. But if you stay firm and consistent, they’ll soon learn that bedtime is non-negotiable.
Why Consistency Is So Important
While it may feel frustrating in the moment, consistency is key to your child’s well-being.
- It provides security: Toddlers feel safer when they know their parents are in charge. If they sense that they have control, they may actually feel more anxious and unsettled.
- It promotes better sleep: A predictable bedtime routine helps the brain release melatonin, the sleep hormone, and signals the body to relax.
- It saves you from endless negotiations: When bedtime follows the same routine every night, your child knows exactly what to expect and won’t try to prolong the process.
Final Thoughts
If you want bedtime to be a peaceful, stress-free experience, set a clear routine and stick to it every single night. The first few days might be challenging, but over time, your toddler will adjust and learn to fall asleep more easily.
And if you need personalized support to help your child sleep better, book a consultation with us — together, we’ll find the best strategy for your family!
Your Sleep Consultants at NAP,
Cristina & Meriame
