Get out, get active
Everyone is more tired and relaxed after time outdoors. Weather permitting, a walk after dinner allows a last chance at some fresh air. Make sure your child gets at least half an hour of outdoor time each day in all but the most extreme weather.
Set the stage for sleep
Put your baby down in a crib, co-sleeper or bassinet. Remove all toys and distractions — his bed is for sleeping, not playing. A mobile might help lull him to sleep but should be removed for safety reasons once he's able to pull himself up and grasp it.
Stick to a bedtime routine
Routines before bed make a child feel safe and relaxed. Try winding down at the same time every day with a warm bath, a massage with baby oil and a few bedtime stories.
Stories and soft singing are also soothing. Predetermine the number of songs and stories ahead of time. Do not let your child cajole you into extending his bedtime routine with pleas of “just one more.” Keeping a firm bedtime will ensure he gets all the sleep he needs.
Infants should be fed before being putting to bed, though newborns will likely need to be nurse or get a bottle at least once during the night. If the child is older, a small drink of water may help keep him hydrated during the night.
Don’t jump the gun
Babies and young children have different sleep patterns than adults, with more periods of light sleep. Which means that kids often appear to sleep restlessly, moving and stirring and making noise, though they may not really be awake. Wait before picking up your child, as he may return to sleep without your help.
Help him help himself
It will take some time before your baby learns to sleep through the night. There are a variety of sleep-training techniques, but most agree that the infants should not be left to cry for long periods. However, letting him cry for 5 to 10 minutes may help him learn to soothe himself.
Rewards
If your 2- or 3-year-old is having trouble sleeping through the night, a reward system using stickers might encourage him to stay in bed instead of coming to you at night. After he’s earned a few stickers, offer him a larger reward — like a trip to his favorite park or children’s museum.
