Hi can someone advise with how I can get my daughter to sleep in her own room?

 


A reader asks:

Hi can someone advise with how I can get my daughter to sleep in her own room? In the process, I want to get my 9-month-old to do the same. Which one shall we do first?

My take:

Oh, the classic bedtime tango: one kid clinging to your side like Velcro, and the other ready to cry the minute you step foot out of the room. Let’s tackle this with a bit of strategy and humor—because you’re going to need both.

First, start with your older child. Why? Because once they’re happily snoozing in their own bed, you’ll have the mental bandwidth to address the baby’s sleep situation. Plus, the 9-month-old likely has fewer reasons (and less vocabulary) to argue about it.

Here’s a game plan for your older child:


  1. Create a “Big Kid” Oasis    : Make their room irresistible. Think glow-in-the-dark stars, a nightlight that changes colors, or themed bedding with their favorite characters. It’s all about selling them the dream of their dream room.


  2. Reward the Move    : Introduce a reward chart. One night in their own bed equals a sticker. Five stickers? Boom, they pick a small prize (like an extra bedtime story or a trip to the park).

  3. Establish a Routine: Keep bedtime consistent. Start with some calming activities like a warm bath, a short story, and maybe some “room patrol” to check for imaginary monsters—just in case.

Once your older child is settled, it’s time to tag in the 9-month-old. This phase may involve a little sleep training (whatever method you’re comfortable with). Remember to be consistent, stick to a schedule, and keep the vibe calm and soothing.

If both attempts overlap and your home starts feeling like a battlefield, don’t panic. You’re already tackling the hardest part: setting the intention to change. With some patience and persistence, you’ll all be sleeping like royalty soon enough.

Amazon Products to Help:

  1. OK to Wake Clock for Kids – Perfect for helping your older child learn when it's time to get up.
  2. White Noise Machine – Great for lulling your baby (and you) into a peaceful slumber.

You’ve got this, bedtime warrior! Sweet dreams await—eventually.

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