How to Help Your Toddler Stay in Their Bed All Night

Toddlerhood brings exciting growth—and bedtime challenges. If your little one constantly leaves their bed at night, you’re not alone. Thankfully, practical strategies can make bedtime smoother.

Why Do Toddlers Resist Staying in Bed?

Toddlers are curious and love testing boundaries. Bedtime resistance might stem from FOMO, separation anxiety, limit-testing, or a lack of impulse control (which doesn’t really develop until children are older). You can address these behaviors with compassionate, clear boundaries.

Create a Predictable Bedtime Routine

A consistent routine gives toddlers a sense of security and helps them transition to sleep.

Try This

• A warm bath.
• A favourite bedtime story.
• A calming song or lullaby.
• A short chat about tomorrow’s plans.

Allow time for extra cuddles but stay firm about lights out to avoid delays. If your toddler is constantly asking for something each night that isn’t part of the routine, build it into the routine to avoid unnecessary battles (e.g., 20 kisses!). Start the routine earlier if needed.

Use a Toddler Clock

Toddler clocks visually cue kids when to stay in bed and when to wake up.

Try This

• Choose a clock without blue light to avoid disrupting melatonin.
• Explain its purpose: “Green means wake up, red means stay in bed.”
• Celebrate small successes with positive reinforcement, like a high five or stickers.

Be Consistent with Boundaries

Calmly return your toddler to bed if they leave it, avoiding discussions or reactions.

Try This

• Use a neutral phrase like, “It’s time to sleep,” while guiding them back.
• Keep reactions minimal to make boundary-testing unexciting.
• Stay patient and consistent for long-term results.

Additional Resources for Better Sleep

Explore more tips here:

• Creating a Routine That Promotes Independence
• Easing Anxiety with Calming Bedtime Routines
• How to Change Your Daily Routine for Better Nighttime Sleep
• Transitioning from a Crib to a Bed

These posts provide deeper insights into each topic.

Next Steps for Restful Nights

Toddler Sleep Independence Workshop

Discover proven methods to help your toddler sleep independently. Learn more.

Call me!

If getting your toddler to stay in their bed all night feels more urgent, book a call and we can work 1:1 to create an effective sleep plan.