Getting Your Toddler to Sleep
Getting your toddler to sleep can be a very difficult task. Most harassed parents try all kinds of tricks, including singing, reading stories, feeding, and even punishing, to try to get their children to sleep. They end up frustrated and defeated, though, and sometimes just let their children fall asleep on their own. With a firm resolve and a few effective strategies, you can nip this problem in the bud. Here are some ideas for you to try:
1) Ensure that your child gets lots of physical activity during the day so that he will be tired by nighttime. Try taking him child to the park or a place of interest once a week, like a zoo.
2) If your toddler takes a nap during the daytime, now might be a good time to stop this. Your toddler will be more willing to go to sleep early at night if he hasn’t been over rested during the day.
3) Do not give your toddler soda, sugar or candy in the evening, especially after dinner, as this will only end up making him hyper. Instead, offer your toddler a glass of warm milk, which is a sleep-inducing agent.
4) You may have tried reading books to your toddler but what you can do is let the child explore the book on his own. This will help him relax and get drowsy.
5) Do not give in to your child’s demands, whining, and pleading. Remember that you need to stay firm and tough. Don’t allow more than one potty and drink break after he is in bed. Don’t fall for diversion tactics. However, don’t ignore these antics totally as this will only make your kid more hyper. Just firmly say that he has had a break and it is time to go back to sleep again.
6) Give your child a special toy or blanket reserved exclusively for bedtime. It will make him look forward to cuddling with it at night.
7) The room in which your child sleeps should be dark but not that dark to be frightening for a young one. Leave a night light on for security and comfort.
8) It is a good idea to set up a regular bedtime routine so that your child knows when it is time for him to go to bed. He should know that a warm bath before bedtime, some extra cuddling, and a story mean that it is almost time to go to bed. Soon he will be telling you that YOU need to go to bed too!
If you have any insights, questions or comments regarding the topic, please share them in our Comment box below.
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Google+ to stay up-to-date on the latest from theAsianparent.com Philippines!
