Help your child learn good sleep habits early. Setting a regular bedtime and creating a comforting routine can help your child get the sleep they need.

• Set regular bedtimes, wake-up times, and nap times for your child. If your child no longer takes naps, schedule some quiet time during the day.
• Have a relaxing bedtime routine for your child. It should take about 30 minutes and can include going to the bathroom or getting a diaper change, brushing teeth, and quiet activities like story time.
• Make the bedroom quiet and restful:
  • Don't have a TV, computer, or video games in the room.
  • Have a nightlight if your child is afraid of the dark.
  • Keep the area around the crib or bed safe and free of cords and other items that could hurt your child.
  • Give your child a special toy or blanket to sleep with.
• Turn on a white noise machine, electric fan, or soft music if noise from outside keeps your child awake.
• Do not lie with your child until they fall asleep or let your child fall asleep somewhere other than the bed. This can make it hard for kids to fall asleep on their own.
• It's common for kids this age to not want to go to bed or to wake in the middle of the night:
  • If your child calls out to you, don't answer right away. Give your child a chance to fall asleep without your help.
  • If your child is afraid or becomes very upset, go offer comfort.
  • If your child gets out of bed, calmly take them back to bed.
  • After offering comfort or returning your child to bed, say that it's time to go to sleep. Keep your visit short — about a minute.
  • If your child cries when you leave, wait a few minutes before going back into the room.
• Make sure your child gets plenty of exercise during the day. This can help kids sleep better.

• Your child has trouble sleeping. 
• You have questions or concerns about your child's sleep.

How much sleep does my child need? Most kids 1–2 years old need 11–14 hours of sleep, including naps. Kids ages 3–5 need about 10–13 hours of sleep. Most kids this age will start to give up their naps and get all their sleep at night.