How Long 'Til Bedtime? | Sleep and Parenting Podcast

207. The #1 Mistake Parents Make with Toddler Bedtime Routines (And What to Do Instead)


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If your toddler is suddenly taking forever to fall asleep—or bouncing off the walls when bedtime rolls around—it's tempting to think the solution is a later bedtime. But that's actually the wrong move in most cases.

In this episode, Allison Egidi, pediatric sleep and wellness coach, explains the #1 mistake parents make with toddler bedtime routines and what to do instead. She breaks down why toddlers resist sleep, what a "second wind" really is, and how to structure evenings so kids can fall asleep more quickly and rest more soundly.

You'll learn:

  • Why pushing bedtime later usually backfires

  • The role of activity level in the hour before bed

  • How overtired toddlers get their notorious "second wind"

  • What an age-appropriate bedtime really looks like

  • Practical tips to help your toddler fall asleep faster

Allison also shares a real-life example from a family who thought their 3-year-old needed a 9 PM bedtime—and how one simple shift transformed their nights.

If you've been tempted to delay bedtime in hopes of making your toddler "more tired," this episode will give you a fresh perspective and tools you can try tonight.

Dealing with a sleep regression with a 15 to 30 month old? Grab Allison's workshop

Want to talk through smoothing out your evenings or bedtime with your toddler? Connect with Allison for a 1-on-1 consultation

Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube

From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use.

Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place.

Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics.

Wondering if your child is getting enough sleep? Allison's free guides take the guesswork out of bedtime. Learn the optimal sleep ranges for every age so your little one can feel their best—day after day. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old

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How Long 'Til Bedtime? | Sleep and Parenting PodcastBy Allison Egidi | Pediatric Sleep Coach

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