What is a toddler? It’s that scrumptious little human who is just learning how to walk. They toddle, sometimes they fall, and sometimes they resort to crawling again. But they are as adorable as a baby deer standing up on shaky legs for the first time.
Toddlers are generally classified as children between 12 and 36 months, although some children begin walking earlier. Once your little one starts moving around, you quickly realize how many sharp edges and potential hazards exist around the house. Baby-proofing suddenly becomes a priority!
If you have a toddler, you may have already experienced bedtime battles. Kids can become overtired, overstimulated, and overactive, which makes it difficult for them to settle down. You might find yourself asking: why does my toddler scream at bedtime?
Here are some friendly tips that may help create a smoother bedtime routine.
Toddler Bedtime Tips
Consistency
Consistency can be challenging. Sometimes you are visiting family, staying somewhere else, or hosting guests, and routines get disrupted. When routines change, it can lead to toddler tantrums at bedtime or difficulty falling asleep.
Don’t worry—this happens to every parent. Try to maintain a bedtime routine whenever possible, even when you are away from home.
Music
Music can be a simple and soothing tool to help toddlers fall asleep. One of the moms here at the Organic Baby Formula Shop used toddler bedtime music as part of her nightly routine.
She would sing gentle songs like Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Silent Night, or other soft lullabies, and her toddler would gradually drift off to sleep.
If singing isn’t your strength, you can create a calming playlist of lullabies or soft music and sit quietly with your toddler as they relax.
Cuddles
Some parents prefer to cuddle their toddler, pat their back, or rub their shoulders while they fall asleep. This can be very comforting and soothing.
However, keep in mind that if this becomes a nightly habit, it can sometimes be difficult to change later when your toddler becomes more independent.
Bedtime Stories
Bedtime stories are another wonderful addition to a nighttime routine. A favorite book can travel anywhere and help create a familiar and calming environment.
Children enjoy looking at the pictures, and when you read in a soft, soothing voice they may even fall asleep before the story ends.
Patience
Some toddlers repeatedly get out of bed after being tucked in. If this happens, one common approach is to gently guide them back to bed each time until they stay.
This technique requires patience, but many parents find it effective.
Another approach some families use is the “three strikes” rule. If a toddler gets out of bed more than three times, there might be a small consequence the following day, such as slightly less playtime at the park.
Many parents prefer the patience method, focusing on calm teaching rather than punishment. Toddlers are often too young to fully understand consequences, and frustration can sometimes make bedtime struggles worse.
What Is a Good Bedtime for Toddlers?
There is no strict bedtime rule for toddlers, but maintaining a consistent schedule can help.
If your toddler takes a long daytime nap, bedtime might fall around 7 or 8 pm. If they nap lightly or skip naps, bedtime may need to be earlier.
Some families adjust bedtime slightly so their child can spend time with a parent who arrives home later from work.
The most important thing is choosing a routine that works for your family and trying to follow it consistently.
There will be meltdowns from time to time—sometimes even yours! Parenting a toddler is a daily adventure. Stay flexible, keep adapting, and continue showering your child with love. You’re doing an amazing job.