When Toddler Bedtime Help Starts Making Sleep Harder
When toddler bedtime demands start taking over, many parents respond by doing whatever helps in the moment: staying longer, bringing bottles, offering snacks, or lying on the floor. These loving accommodations can work temporarily, but when they become unsustainable, they can make sleep harder. Here’s why changing your response can help your toddler feel safer, more secure, and more independent at bedtime.
Case Study #1 - Toddler Transitions
A bright and loving 26-month-old toddler recently experienced a significant sleep transition. After falling out of her crib and breaking a tooth (requiring an ER visit), her parents had to quickly transition her to a floor bed for safety reasons—much earlier than they had planned.
This transition came with unexpected challenges. While Sophia had been an excellent sleeper since sleep training at 6 months, the past couple of months had shown signs of struggle, with increasing bedtime battles that ultimately led to the crib accident.