why do toddlers fight their sleep?

Answers:
Toddlers are just learning to interact with the world around them, and to assert themselves... They are testing the thier limits and your rules.... They are worried they will miss something when they are asleep, so they fight sleep until they simply can't fight anymore...

I found putting my toddlers to bed and telling them they were allowed to stay awake as long as they wanted but they had to remain in bed worked great... They had permission to remain awake in bed and soon grew bored laying there with nothing to do.. No toys, books, flashlights, nothing just them and boredom... The first night takes about 40-45 minutes before they finally gave up and went to sleep then less and less time...

By telling them they can stay awake you are taking away the "I am defying you" incentive... When you are allowed to do something it's much less exciting to do... By limiting them to being in bed with nothing to play with... You are creating an enviroment they grow bored with quickly... bored = sleep...

A bit of reverse psychology but it worked....

Lack of melatonin (a naturally occuring substance) can be a problem with some children - they don't recognise night from day - possible to have melatonin prescribed if this is big problem. Perhaps too much stimulation too near to bedtime - warm bath and warm drink/story always worked for me.

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why do toddlers fight their sleep?

Pregnancy & Parenting