Training Toddlers to Sleep in Toddler Beds

Create Excitement for the Toddler Bed

Create excitement in your toddler for her toddler bed. Take your toddler with you when you buy the bed. Let your toddler pick out the bed she wants. Buy a comforter and new sheets of her choice to go on the bed. Your toddler will be more excited and more inclined to sleep in a bed that she picked.

Provide a Transitional Object

Children like to feel safe and have their parents to fulfill that need. Being alone in a toddler bed can be a scary thing for a toddler. Knowing that you are not there with him the whole time can create a feeling of insecurity. A blanket, stuffed animal or other inanimate object may fulfill that need while your toddler is in his toddler bed.

Have a Bedtime Routine

Have a routine for your toddler. Routine bedtime activities may include bath time, brushing teeth, reading a book, saying prayers, singing a song and turning out the lights. Have a consistent bedtime for your child. Consistency will help your toddler feel comfortable, which may make it easier to keep your child sleeping in her toddler bed and sleeping through the night.

Reward Your Toddler

Reward your toddler. Toddlers respond well to rewards. If your toddler sleeps in his bed all night, reward him. Consider using stickers on a chart -- give a sticker to your toddler if he stays in bed all night. If it is more difficult for your child to sleep in the toddler bed, give him a sticker for every hour he was in the toddler bed. After a set amount, provide a larger prize, such as a toy or something else to enjoy.

Be Consistent

Your child may be uncomfortable in her toddler bed and may try to crawl in bed with you. Do not scold or yell at your child. Do not talk to your child. Simply pick your child up and carry her back to the toddler bed. Tuck your child in bed and leave the room. Do this as many times as you have to until your toddler stays in the toddler bed. Reward good behavior the following day.