Toddlers thrive on routine and need a regular bed time. Many toddlers are verbal and will try to bargain with you to stay up. Do not get into a discussion. Just say, "It's bedtime; let's go to bed," and put the child to bed. If you child cries, return briefly to comfort him or her, but do not pick the child up.

If your toddler comes out of the bedroom repeatedly, restrain with a gate or other means (close the door). Do not feel guilty; children have no business wandering around the house at night. Toddler love to sleep in Mom's and Dad's bed during the night. Do not permit this! Every night your child spends in your bed will make it that much harder to get the child back into his or her own bed. Gate the child's bedroom door if necessary, leave a little night-light on, and have bedtime, sleep-with toys available.