How to Get a Toddler to Sleep: Real Strategies that Work

Getting a toddler to sleep can feel like trying to negotiate with a tiny, irrational dictator who’s had too much sugar. Bedtime battles, frequent wake-ups, and resistance to naps can leave single moms running on fumes. If this sounds like your reality—you’re not alone, Mama. Lots of moms face this struggle.

The good news? With a few consistent strategies and the right environment, bedtime can become a peaceful, predictable part of your routine. This post shares practical, doable tips that actually work in the real world of busy, overwhelmed single moms.

As a bonus, grab your free printable sleep tip sheet at the end of this post to help you stick with your toddler’s new bedtime routine.

Why Toddlers Struggle With Sleep

Toddlers are learning independence, and sleep is one of the first areas where they like to assert it. Their growing brains are overstimulated, their bodies are learning rhythms, and they don’t want to miss a moment of the action—even if it’s bedtime. Add transitions (like potty training, moving house or a new daycare), and sleep can be easily disrupted.

Sleep resistance is normal (but solvable). Understanding this can give you more patience as you guide your child toward better rest. A consistent routine and calm environment are key.

Toddlers thrive on routine. A consistent bedtime routine tells their brain and body that it’s time to wind down. Try this:

• Start winding down 30–60 minutes before bed

• Turn off screens and lower lights

• Follow the same 3–5 steps each night (e.g. bath, pajamas, brush teeth, story, cuddle)

• Keep it calm and predictable

Consistency is more important than perfection. Choose a rhythm that works for you both and stick with it—even when bedtime’s a bit late.

1. Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine

Your toddler’s room or sleeping space should support rest. Here’s how:

• Use blackout curtains to keep it dark

• Keep the room at a comfortable temperature depending on the weather

• Use a white noise machine to drown out noise, or play soft relaxing music

• Remove stimulating toys or screens from the sleeping area

• Let your child choose one comfort item (a soft stuffed animal or blanket)

Make sure the bed or crib feels safe and cozy. A toddler might want to test limits by climbing out—ensure that the room is toddler-proof if that happens.

2. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment

3. Watch Wake Windows and Nap Timing

An overtired toddler can become hyper, cranky, and even more resistant to sleep. On the flip side, a nap too late in the day can push bedtime back by hours.

Here are general toddler wake window guidelines:

• 12–18 months: 3.5–4.5 hours

• 18–24 months: 4.5–5.5 hours

• 2–3 years: 5–6 hours

Track when your child naturally gets sleepy and aim to start the bedtime routine before they’re overtired.

4. Get Your Toddler Involved

Toddlers like to help. Even when you don’t want them to. But bedtime is a good opportunity to let them assert themselves and be useful. Here’s how you can let them be involved in the bedtime routine:

• Print out a bedtime routine chart and place it somewhere visible and within your toddler’s eye level. Show them the pictures and read each step of the routine to them. This helps your child feel independent and important. Here’s an example of a bedtime routine chart you can use: Toddler Routine Chart Bundle.

• Let them brush their teeth on their own and praise their efforts

• Give them simple tasks like turning on their nightlight (if it’s safe for them to do)

5. Avoid Power Struggles

Toddlers want independence. So I say give it to them. But within limits. You set the boundaries. Keep your tone calm but firm. Offer two limited choices:

• "Do you want to wear your pink or yellow pajamas?"

• "Should we read Curious George or Brown Bear Brown Bear?"

These little choices give your child a sense of control while keeping you in charge. Avoid engaging in debates at bedtime. Repeat your calm expectations (“It’s time to sleep now”) and follow through consistently. If you have a toddler like mine, it may be challenging. But keep at it, Mama. Patience and consistency are vital. Which brings me to the last point.

6. Stick With It - Even When It's Hard

Change doesn’t happen overnight. It might take 1–2 weeks (or longer) for a new sleep routine to stick. There may be crying, resistance, or nights where you want to give up or run away. Don’t. Your consistency is what teaches your toddler what to expect.

If you’re co-sleeping or transitioning to a toddler bed, take small steps. Sit beside them, then move further away each night. Celebrate small wins like falling asleep without protest or staying in bed all night.

Free Printable: Toddler Sleep Tip Sheet Print and post this cheat sheet near your child’s room so you can stay consistent on the hardest nights.

Sleep struggles don’t last forever—but strong bedtime habits do. With a calm presence, a consistent routine, and a toddler-friendly environment, you’ll teach your little one that bedtime isn’t a battle—it’s a safe space.

Give yourself grace. There will be hard nights, but you’re doing beautifully. Keep showing up, one bedtime at a time.

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“I’m a Mom With No Manuals and I’m doing a great job.”