6 ways to make bedtime easier with a toddler.
Toddlers and bedtime. It can be the stuff of nightmares, right? All the tantrums, power struggles and stalling can feel overwhelming and exhausting.
If you are struggling with your toddlers bedtime, here are some quick and easy ways to make it easier.
Give them age appropriate levels of control and choice to avoid power struggles. Let them choose their pyjamas, the books you read, the toy they take to bed etc.
During the day, carve out 10-15 min blocks of time to connect in ways that are meaningful to them. By filling up their connection cup during the day, they won’t be yearning for it at bedtime.
Focus on praising “good” behaviour rather than disciplining “bad” behaviour. For example: “You put your pyjamas on all by yourself? Well done!
Create a bedtime routine that helps them wind down and feel positive about bedtime. Keep it simple and predictable. Toddlers love to know what’s coming.
Set fair and clear boundaries, and lovingly stick to them. Toddlers will ask you for the world at bedtime. Be ready for it so you can navigate it calmly.
Keep your expectations realistic. Toddlers impulse control and emotional regulation are still under construction. Some days they will find bedtime BORING and HARD. Empathise but calmly hold the boundary.
If you need help with your toddlers sleep, reach out. I would love to help you!