How to Get Your Two Year Old Child to Stay in Bed

The transition between baby and child is difficult for all parents. Removing the crib is one of the hardest decisions many parents must make. Suddenly, there is nothing to hold your child in bed. He pops out of bed several times of night, disturbing both his and your sleep. Luckily, there are several solutions that will help keep any two-year-old in bed.

Instructions

    • 1

      Create a bedtime ritual for you and your two-year-old. Toddlers thrive on routine, and will have a harder time falling asleep without one. Create a routine every night that involves picking out pajamas, brushing teeth, getting a drink, reading a story and lots of hugs and kisses. Make sure to remain calm throughout the ritual.

    • 2

      Meet the nighttime needs of your child. Sometimes a two-year-old wakes up because she is thirsty, or because she has to go to the bathroom. Allow your child to get up for these reasons. Make sure your child feels loved during the day. Do not put your toddler to bed when you are frustrated or angry.

    • 3

      Provide comfort to a toddler who will not stay in bed. Give the toddler plenty of affection during the day, and at night when he or she is first put to bed. Two-year-olds still may harbor some separation anxiety. Assure them that you will always be there, even when they cannot see you.

    • 4

      Find out why the toddler got out of bed. Determine whether it was from illness, a nightmare, fear of monsters or other scary situation. Do not immediately dismiss your child's concerns. Find out what is wrong before sending your two-year-old back to bed.

    • 5

      Return your child to bed if nothing is wrong and all needs are met. Tell your two-year-old that it is bedtime and he needs to sleep. Escort the child back to bed and give him plenty of affection.

    • 6

      Return the child to bed every time she wakes up. If your two-year-old is getting up to explore or to be defiant, then a different tack is necessary. Continue to return the toddler to bed, but do not allow him or her any more cuddling. Say nothing as you escort the child back to bed after the first few times. The toddler will eventually realize that bedtime is a necessity.

    • 7

      Consider the removal of naps if your child continues to have problems with bedtime, or does not seem sleepy when it is bedtime. It is possible that your two-year-old is not tired when it is bedtime because of the naps. Consult with your child's health professional about the removal of nap time.

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