How to Help Your Toddler Stay in Their Big Kid Bed All Night: Say Goodbye to Bedtime Battles!

“Why won’t my toddler stay in their bed?”

I get this question all the time from toddler families so we wanted to make sure you have the tools you need to address this situation when you experience it for yourself. 

Personally, I remember the first few nights after transitioning my toddler to a big kid bed were not the best. What started as an exciting milestone quickly turned into what felt like Groundhog Day—or should I say, Groundhog Night? My child would pop out of bed over and over, each time with a new excuse: "I need water," "I have to go potty," "I forgot to give you a hug." I’d walk them back, tuck them in, and five minutes later, those little feet would be padding down the hall again. 

It took patience, consistency, and the right strategies to finally help them adjust—and if you're going through the same thing, I promise, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Hillary, our pediatric occupational therapist, is sharing her best expert-backed strategies to help your toddler stay in bed all night so you both can get the rest you need!

How to Help Your Toddler
Stay in Their Big Kid Bed

Transitioning from a crib to a big kid bed is a major milestone for toddlers and parents alike. While this change can be exciting, it can also lead to bedtime struggles, frequent night wakings, and middle-of-the-night wanderings. As a pediatric occupational therapist, I know that success in this transition relies on a mix of environmental strategies, sensory regulation, and consistent routines. Here are practical tips to help your toddler stay in bed all night so you can both get the sleep you need!

1. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment

A comfortable, cozy, and dark sleep environment can make a world of difference in keeping your toddler in bed. Similar to their sleep environment as an infant, toddlers benefit from a space that promotes restful sleep:

• Keep the Room Dark & Cool: A dimly lit room (with a red or amber nightlight if needed) and a comfortable cool temperature (around 65-70°F) encourage better sleep.

• White Noise for Comfort: A white noise machine can help drown out household sounds that might wake your child.

• Minimize Stimulating Decor: Avoid overly stimulating wall decals, bright colors, or toys within arm’s reach that might tempt them out of bed.

• Use a Toddler Clock: A visual sleep clock helps your toddler understand when it’s time to stay in bed and when it’s okay to wake up.

 You can also get them involved in picking out things for their new bed and bedroom. Read Creating a Sensory-Friendly Bedroom for Your Toddler: A Guide to Better Toddler Sleep for more information on how you can setup that perfect bedroom for your toddler so they wanna stay in there all night long. 

2. Establish a Predictable Bedtime Routine

A structured, predictable bedtime routine helps toddlers feel secure and signals their bodies that it’s time for sleep. Keep the routine simple and consistent:

• Wind Down with Calming Activities: Avoid screens at least an hour before bed. Instead, try quiet play, reading, or deep-pressure activities like a gentle massage. If your child has extra energy, structured rough-housing followed by deep breathing and big hugs can help calm their nervous system.

• Follow a Step-by-Step Routine: A predictable order like bath, pajamas, brushing teeth, and storytime provides structure. A visual schedule can help reinforce the routine.

• Offer a Comfort Object: A special stuffed animal or blanket can provide security as they adjust to their new bed.

For more detailed information on how to establish a bedtime routine for your toddler that works for them and your family read Toddler Bedtime Routine to Help Your Child Sleep Through the Night

3. Set Clear Expectations and Boundaries

Toddlers thrive on clear, consistent expectations. Setting the rules for staying in bed before any issues arise can prevent bedtime battles:

• Use Simple Language: Explain, “Once we say goodnight, you stay in bed until morning.” Be sure to follow through!

• Practice During the Day: Role-play with a stuffed animal to demonstrate what staying in bed looks like. 

• Use a Rewards System: A simple sticker chart can reinforce staying in bed all night. We have a few reward systems linked on our Amazon Storefront to make it easy. 

• Try a Ticket System: Give your child one or two tickets to use if they need to get out of bed. Once the tickets are gone, they must stay in bed. Grab a bedtime pass/ticket template here. 
  

4. Address Sensory Needs

Many toddlers struggle with sleep due to sensory processing differences. Consider these sensory-friendly strategies:

• Weighted Blankets: Some children benefit from the calming pressure of a lightweight weighted blanket (up to 10% of their body weight).

• Deep Pressure Input: Hugs, squeezes, or a cozy sleep sack can help regulate their nervous system.

• Movement Breaks Before Bed: Try animal walks, yoga, or gentle bouncing on a therapy ball to help get the wiggles out. High-energy kids may benefit from obstacle courses or jumping onto a mountain of couch cushions before bed to provide deep pressure input, which promotes relaxation.
  

5. Responding to Night Wakings or Escaping

If your toddler gets out of bed, stay calm and consistent:

• Use the Silent Return: Gently guide them back to bed with minimal talking.

• Avoid Engaging Too Much: Keep interactions brief to avoid reinforcing the behavior. A quick hug and a simple “Good night, I love you” is all that’s needed.

• Be Patient: Transitions take time! With consistency, your toddler will adjust to their new sleep space.
  
  
  By creating a supportive environment, maintaining a solid routine, and addressing sensory needs, you’ll help your toddler feel safe and confident in their big kid bed. The transition may not be seamless overnight, but with patience and consistency, restful nights are within reach. Sweet dreams!

  Need more personalized support? Join our 5-day group coaching program, where we help you create a sleep plan that works for your family and toddler! With all the support and guidance you need to thrive in your parenting journey. You won’t find any cry-it-out methods inside, I promise. 

  CLICK HERE to get on the waitlist for the next session of our 5-day group coaching program.