ALL THINGS NEWBORN, BABY, & TODDLER SLEEP
The Blog
Parental preference at bedtime: What it is, why it happens, and how to fix it
Do you notice that your child will only let one parent get them ready for bed and put them down? If so, you’re not alone! Whether you are the preferred parent who always has to be “on” at bedtime and never gets a break OR you are the non-preferred parent who wants to help but can’t, I know it can feel incredibly frustrating. Parental preference can be a stressful time for the whole family because one parent (typically mom- but not always) feels tapped out and trapped while dad feels helpless and a little hurt that he’s not wanted at bedtime. Day in and day out, this pattern can grow really tiring and is often the spark of disagreements between partners.
Toddler bedtime made easy: Crafting a routine that works
Bedtime with a toddler can sometimes feel like an Olympic event. From stalling tactics to bursts of energy at the exact wrong moment, getting your little one to bed can be a test of patience. But while the process might seem overwhelming, a consistent bedtime routine can make all the difference.
Toddlers thrive on predictability, and bedtime is no exception. A well-crafted routine not only helps your child transition to sleep more easily but also fosters emotional security and precious moments of connection. In this blog, I’ll break down how to create the perfect bedtime routine for your toddler—one that works for them and you.
Why is my baby suddenly crying at sleep times?
As a pediatric sleep consultant, one question I frequently hear from parents is “Why is my baby suddenly crying at sleep times?!” It can be so confusing (and exhausting and frustrating) when your little one, who may have been settling well, suddenly starts protesting at naps and bedtime. Oftentimes it will feel like it comes out of nowhere and you’re left grasping at straws to try to figure out what happened.
First off, I want to make sure you know that it’s not a reflection on you. It doesn’t mean you’ve failed or that you’ve ruined your good sleeper. Please don’t take this sudden increase in crying and protest personally. It is not your fault. Babies go through all kinds of changes and developments and it’s completely normal to have ups and downs. Let’s talk through some common reasons this might be happening and how you can help your baby through it.