Written by: Eb 

Let’s be honest, bedtime with a toddler can sometimes feel like running a marathon in slow motion. Maybe you’re reading four books, singing three songs, tucking in a dozen stuffed animals, and lying beside your little one until they fall asleep... which takes over an hour. You’re tired, touched out, and wondering how bedtime got so long.

If this routine is working for you and your child, that’s completely okay. No one is here to tell you to change what’s working.

But if bedtime is dragging on, leaving you drained or frustrated, it might be time to rethink your bedtime boundaries.

What Are Bedtime Boundaries?

Put simply, bedtime boundaries are the limits you set around what you will do at bedtime, and what you expect your child to do.

It’s not about being rigid or harsh, it’s about creating a routine that works for both of you, and sticking to it with love and consistency.

You Get to Make the Change

If your current routine no longer serves your family, you have the power to change it.

Will your toddler push back? Most likely. Will they have big feelings? Absolutely. And that’s okay. Your job isn’t to eliminate the feelings, it’s to hold space for them, while gently and firmly holding the boundary.

For example:

“I know you really want another story, but we’re done for tonight. I’ll read more tomorrow. I love you. Goodnight.”

Boundaries Build Security

Here’s the beautiful part, when you follow through with what you say, your toddler learns that your words are reliable. That builds attachment and trust.

They may not like the new boundary at first, but over time, they’ll feel safer knowing what to expect, and that you mean what you say.

A Gentle Reminder

Bedtime doesn’t have to be perfect. Some nights will be harder than others. But clear, kind, and consistent boundaries help turn bedtime from a battle into a peaceful (and quicker!) part of your day.

You’re not just setting limits, you’re building trust, safety, and resilience.