How to Get Your Son to Sleep in His Own Bed

Getting a son to sleep in his own bed can be a difficult challenge, especially if your son has never slept in his own bed before. Still, it can be done, but it will take time and a firm commitment on your part, as well as a willingness to try some techniques you might have been reluctant to consider in the past. Regardless of how it's done, rest assured that your child won't be a teenager and still sleeping in your bed.

Things You'll Need

• Nightlight
• Paper and stickers

Instructions

1. Make it an attractive option. Let him pick out his own comforter, pillows and other decorations. Boys love a sense of adventure, so you could even consider buying a tent covering for the bed (see Resources).

2. Give him some privileges. Tell him that as a big boy, he gets to stay up a half hour later, but he has to sleep in his own bed to do it.

3. Create a rewards chart. For every night he sleeps in his bed, place a sticker on the chart. At the end of the week, go on a boy-friendly activity, such as a putt-putt golfing trip or to the adventure gym.

4. Sleep with him. Sleep on the floor next to him for the first few nights, then gradually move out of the room by alternating nights on the floor and in your own bed.

5. Get to the root of things. Why does he not want to sleep alone? If it is the darkness, get him a nightlight. If it is monsters under the bed, fill the space so there's no room for monsters. Try talking with him to see if you can find out what is really going on (this may take more than one talk, by the way).

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid punishing him if there is a real fear involved in sleeping in his own bed. Punishment will only make him feel worse about himself and his fears.

References

• Article on getting children to sleep in their own beds

Resources

• Tinker Tot Play Bed Tents