Picky Eaters: What Actually Helps
Why young children are picky eaters, the division of responsibility at meals, how many tries a new food can take, what backfires, and when to see a doctor.
Bedtime Battles: A Routine That Works
How to end bedtime battles: a simple, consistent routine, how much sleep children need by age, handling stalling and night wakings, and screens before bed.
Key takeaways
- A short, predictable routine at the same time each night is the biggest single fix.
- Turn screens off at least an hour before bed and keep them out of the bedroom.
- Offer limited choices within the routine, and handle stalling calmly and consistently.
On this page
If bedtime in your house involves six glasses of water, three more stories and a negotiation worthy of the United Nations, you’re not alone. The good news: a predictable routine fixes most bedtime battles within a couple of weeks. If wet nights are part of the picture, see our bedwetting guide; for clinginess at lights out, see separation anxiety.
How much sleep do children need?
| Age | Recommended sleep per 24 hours (including naps) |
|---|---|
| 1–2 years | 11–14 hours |
| 3–5 years | 10–13 hours |
| 6–12 years | 9–12 hours |
| 13–18 years | 8–10 hours |
These ranges follow guidance endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
The routine
Keep it to about 20–30 minutes, in the same order every night:
- Wind-down signal: dim the lights and turn off screens.
- Bath or wash.
- Pyjamas and teeth.
- Two books (decide the number in advance).
- Cuddle, song or chat about the day.
- Lights out with a consistent phrase: “Goodnight, I love you, see you in the morning.”
A picture chart of the steps helps younger children know what comes next.
Screens and sleep
Screens close to bedtime make it harder to fall asleep. Switch them off at least an hour before bed and keep devices out of the bedroom; our screen time by age guide explains why.
Handling stalling
- Build requests into the routine: water and a toilet trip happen before books, not after.
- Offer choices that don’t change the outcome: “This pyjama top or that one?”
- Use a “bedtime pass”: one pass per night for one extra request.
- Stay calm and boring when they get up: walk them back with few words.
Night wakings and early risers
Keep night visits brief and quiet. For early risers, a toddler clock that changes colour at wake-up time helps. Check that bedtime isn’t too late, since overtired children often wake earlier.
When to talk to your pediatrician
- Loud snoring, pauses in breathing or restless sleep
- Persistent difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Daytime sleepiness affecting behavior or school
Tired children also have more meltdowns; see toddler tantrums: what works.
Frequently asked questions
What time should a toddler go to bed?
Many toddlers do well going to bed between about 6:30 and 8pm, depending on wake time and naps.
How long should a bedtime routine take?
About 20–30 minutes is plenty. Longer routines often invite more stalling.
Should I lie down with my child until they fall asleep?
It works for some families. If you want to change it, gradually move further away over a couple of weeks.
Sources
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