How many sleepless nights have you had all in the name of keeping your children close? Many parents just don't have the energy to fight with their little ones when they come crawling into bed in the middle of the night. Unfortunately, it becomes a pattern in time, and old habits die hard. If having your child sleep in his bed through the night sounds like a dream come true, here are some things you can do to make it a reality. Decorate your child's room to his tastes. Make it a place where he wants to be. Let him pick out the theme and spruce up the place with his favorite things. Be sure that he's in a suitably sized bed, not too big and not too small. A big bed can seem overwhelming and a small bed can be just plain uncomfortable. Before putting your child to bed, make a pit stop by the bathroom and make sure he goes. Set forth a bedtime routine. Spend some quality time reading, chatting or listening to soft music.
This should give your child something to look forward to every night before he turns in. Now for the don'ts. Don't fall asleep with your child - he'll get used to needing a warm body next to him to fall asleep. Firmly explain to your child that with the new bedroom and routine come new responsibilities, one of which is staying in the bed for the entire night. Even if your child pitches a fit, don't give in. If he comes out of the room, send him back. Do not bend, not even for an instant. Last but not least, if your child comes to your bed in the middle of the night, take him back to his room and make him get into bed. Do not allow him to stay in your bed, no matter how tired you may be. In the end, the pay off will be plenty of nights of good sleep. You just need to be willing to make the sacrifice.