16 October 2026Sleep
One more story, one more water, one more hug. Bedtime drags on forever. Is this normal?
Extremely common from around age 2. Toddlers are testing independence, and bedtime is the moment they are separated from you, so stalling is partly about connection.
Try this tonight
Build a short, identical routine and put the connection before lights out: bath, two books, one song. Offer a "bedtime pass" good for one extra request, then calm, boring returns to bed.
When to check in
Mention it to your GP if there's loud snoring, pauses in breathing, or your child is very sleepy during the day.
Official guidance: AAP HealthyChildren: Sleep
You're not alone.
