How Do I Teach an 18-Month-Old to Sleep in His Toddler Bed?
When the big day arrives for an 18-month-old to spend his first full night in his toddler bed, chances are that much anticipation and excitement led up to the event. Problems can occur right away, as children find that the move from their first sleeping situation to a new one is trickier once the lights go out and the reality sets in. Parents can ease the way to restful nights for themselves and their little ones by planning for the transition and setting nighttime rules. Consistency is key when you teach your toddler to sleep in his own bed.
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Instructions
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Include your toddler in the preparations. Let him pick out sheets or a comforter for his new bed. Shop together for a special stuffed toy. Make it clear to your child that the toy is for snuggling in his new bed, not for playing with anywhere else. Let your child nap in his new bed for two or three weeks prior to his transition to nighttime sleeping there.
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Establish a bedtime ritual and follow it each night. Choose quiet activities designed to help your toddler wind down before bed. Include bathtime, story-reading and cuddling in a rocking chair. Give your child a light snack and a drink of milk or water before trotting off to bed.
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Place a night-light in your toddler's room or turn on a dim lamp. Leave the light on all night. Tell your child that when the light is on, it is nighttime and she must stay in her bed. Use the light only when she is in bed for the night.
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Gently guide your child back to his room if he gets out of his toddler bed at night. Tuck him in. Remind him that when his night-light is on it means he must stay in bed. Reassure him with hugs and kisses and cheerfully leave the room.
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Remain calm and unwavering in your consistent practice of following a bedtime routine and insisting that your child sleep in her bed. Commit to your plan and follow it to the letter to show your child that you are in charge.
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Reward your child's efforts to sleep in his toddler bed. Make a big deal about the first night he sleeps there without leaving his room. Make him his favorite treat or let him call Grandma and Grandpa to tell the exciting news.
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Tips & Warnings
Enlist the help of your spouse or other adults who live in your home. Ask them to help your child follow the bedtime rules and rituals.
Don't sleep in your child's room while you are teaching her to sleep in her toddler bed --- she will learn to rely on your presence instead of developing her own ability to fall asleep there.
References
- Photo Credit sad girl image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
