Babies tend to sleep close to their parents for the first year of their lives.  This is so that the parents can quickly tend to their needs and keep an eye on them.  This practice is different for all households.  Some parents have a separate nursery for their baby which is still close to their room. 

Parents who have their child sleep in a separate room from the start feel that they are helping the baby become independent at an early age.  Regardless of where the baby sleeps, as it grows into its toddler stage, this signifies a time when the child must go to sleep on their own, in their own room and their own bed.  This can be a very difficult change for a young child as they are used to being near their parents.

Toddlers tend to either throw a tantrum or become fidgety when put to bed on their own.  If this is the case, do not force your child to sleep by themselves until they are comfortable.  If you are having a hard time putting your toddler to bed, read this article for some tips.

Make your child’s room as comfortable and intriguing as possible.  Decorate it with many fun toys, soothing colors, images and music.  Children respond well to sound and vibration so you may want to keep the music playing while they are sleeping or turn on a fan.

Children have odd sleeping habits.  Some can sleep through any type of noise while others are awakened with the slightest creak of the floor boards.  Learn what helps your child fall asleep by experimentation and then stick with it.

Try to initiate your child into sleeping on their own from an early age.  The longer a child spends in their parent’s bed or close to their parent’s bed, the harder it is to move them away.  By introducing them to their own bedroom at an early age, you will ensure that they become familiar and comfortable with the surroundings.  Lure your toddler to bed with one of their favorite toys.

Place a few of their favorite stuffed animals on their bed for security.  Stay near your toddler as they fall asleep for security.  Keep their bedroom door slightly ajar.  If they see that the door is closed they will feel alienated from their parents.

If you are having a hard time putting your toddler to bed or they keep getting out of bed and run into your room, do not yell at them or drag them back into bed.  Put them in your arms and carry them to bed.  Lay in bed with them and try singing or reading to them until they fall asleep.