Struggling with bedtime battles, toddler sleep regression, or a child who suddenly refuses to sleep alone? In this episode of The Parent Thing, we explore the science of sleep and how to create a bedtime routine that actually works.You’ll learn what’s happening in your child’s brain and nervous system at night, why overtired kids often look wired instead of sleepy, and how stress hormones like cortisol impact sleep. We break down the real reasons children resist bedtime and how connection, predictability, and regulation can transform your evenings.This episode also covers sleep regressions in babies, toddlers, and preschoolers - including the 4-month sleep regression, 8-10 month regression, 18-month regression, 2-year sleep regression, and 3- to 4-year sleep disruptions. You’ll understand why regressions happen, how long they typically last, and what to do during developmental leaps without creating power struggles.If you’re looking for gentle sleep strategies, nervous system-informed parenting tools, and science-backed ways to help your child sleep better, this conversation will give you clarity and confidence.Inside this episode:The neuroscience of sleep and brain developmentHow the nervous system affects bedtime behaviorWhy children fight sleepHow to build a predictable bedtime routineHow to handle sleep regression without panicPractical tools for calmer nightsSleep is not about control. It’s about regulation, safety, and connection. When we support the nervous system, sleep follows.