Tips on Avoiding Sleep Problems
  1. Set up a consistent routine of pre-sleep activities
  2. Make bedtime a matter-of-fact part of the day
  3. Avoid using the bed as a place for discipline
  4. Avoid pre-bedtime rough play
  5. If a child’s sleep is disturbed, reassure him/her with your voice and your presence
  6. Encourage the ability to settle down with some transitional object
  7. For some children, it may take a period of crying to release themselves into sleep. Don’t rush in at the first peep, but don’t let them work into a major crying fit which will overstimulate them either
  8. At about eighteen months, night fears and nightmares may surface. A night light and a reassuring voice frequently help
  9. The toddler may try to delay with requests for another drink of water, another story, another kiss. A gentle, firm “good night” is appropriate
  10. If a child leaves bed to come out of his or her room they need to be led back to bed, whether it is one time or five times, CALMLY. Consistency works!