A Happy Toddler Bedtime

                                                                                         

Your toddler is growing up and learning so much about the world. During the day he's learning new skills, practising his new moves and has realised that he is quite an independent little person. This is great fun but it also tiring for both child and parent.

At your toddler's bedtime everyone will be tired. An easy and happy bedtime with your toddler going to sleep and you having a break is just what you need!

To have a happy toddler bedtime your toddler needs to be ready to go to sleep. Make sure his day time naps are neither too long nor too late in the day. If he's slept too much during the day he simply won't be tired enough to go to sleep in the early evening. This means that you may need to re-jig his day so that you are not in the car or buggy in the late afternoon otherwise your toddler may have an involuntary "powernap"! Of course, sometimes this can't be avoided, but if it can, then do avoid it as it will scupper his bedtime.

Assuming he is ready for sleep at bedtime, then have a calming and relaxing bedtime routine. This could be for example, suppertime, little play, teeth cleaned, bathtime, story time and a good night cuddle. Make sure you have enough time in the day time for cuddles otherwise when your toddler has a goodnight cuddle he'll want it last a long time!

Sometimes a child does not want to be left alone in his bedroom and then either the parent will enforce it or the parent will stay the room and read until their child goes to sleep. Remember that your child is going through lots of different stages very quickly and may need extra reassurance at this age. Reading quietly in his room whilst he goes to sleep may be very reassuring for your child and for you, a time to relax. Reassuring a child is not spoiling him. He won't always need reassurance but sometimes it will help him end his day happily.

If your child is scared of the dark, then do not enforce darkness in his room. A toddler's imagination is very active and a child should never be kept in fear. Allow a lovely nightlight or keep the door open with the landing room light on.

Make sure his room is a welcoming place and that he loves his bed. Toddler beds and fun blankets are available and can really help with a happy bedtime for your child, and so for you.

Black out curtains are wonderful for keeping a room dark in the mornings so that your child is not simply woken by the sunlight streaming in his bedroom.

When you are away keep your toddler bedtime routine the same as at home and bring his familiar bedding. In this way, you should be able to get time off in the evening so that you too can enjoy your holiday!

About the author:
Debbie Morgan is a freelance writer and writes for http://www.toddlerbedtimetips.com.

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