Q:
Recently my 22-month-old daughter started watching movies in the evening, so I allowed her to fall asleep to them. Now she wakes in the middle of the night wanting to watch TV.
When I tell her that it's nighttime, she cries and sometimes won't go to sleep for two hours. How can I stop this? I'm afraid if I don't let her watch, she'll have a meltdown.
A:
Most children this age develop bedtime problems. However, I think it's a mistake to train your daughter to fall asleep while watching a video. This could become habit forming. I'm sure you don't want her to only be able to fall asleep with a movie on.
Around the age of 2, children begin to learn to quiet themselves down to fall asleep. Of course, mom and dad help by having a bedtime ritual. I recommend that you limit TV to the daytime, long before bedtime. Once in bed, cuddle with your daughter, read her stories and calm down from the day's activities.
Finally, don't be afraid of meltdowns. Children have temper tantrums at this age when they can't have what they want. But they don't know what's best for them. It's up to you to set limits and deal with the frustration. It's not too late to change the pattern you have started.
Kenneth N. Condrell Ph.D Child Psychologist
Our parenting advice is given as suggestions only. We recommend you also consult your healthcare provider, and urge you to contact them immediately if your question is urgent or about a medical condition.
