Ask Dr. Mona

At 2.5 years old, your son is at that tricky age where he understands bedtime rules, but following through, especially overnight, can be a different story. Many toddlers don’t respond to visual cues like a red light clock just yet, especially when they’re tired or seeking comfort.

This is a pretty common phase. At some point, many toddlers test the limits and try making their way out of bed, especially when they realize they can.

The key is staying calm, consistent, and keeping the messaging simple. Each time he comes out of bed, calmly walk him back with a short phrase like, “It’s bedtime. I’ll walk you back to your room.” Avoid big reactions or long explanations since those can sometimes make the behavior more engaging for toddlers.

If he continues to leave his bed after 4–5 nights of calm walk-backs, you can consider a bedtime pass. At this age, some children are ready for a little extra structure. You might start with three to five passes and explain, “These are your passes if you need something. Once they’re gone, it’s time to stay in your room.” It gives him a sense of control while still maintaining the boundary.

Some families also use sticker charts in the morning, adding a sticker for each night their child stays in bed. After a few stickers, he earns a small reward. Sticker charts tend to work better closer to age 3, when kids are more motivated by visual tracking and rewards.

And if you decide to stay in his room to help him settle, that’s okay too, as long as it’s intentional. Let him know, “I’ll stay while you’re in your bed. If you get out, I’ll leave.” This provides reassurance while still reinforcing the goal of sleeping independently.

Looking for more tips? This PedsDocTalk YouTube video shares additional toddler bedtime strategies that might help.

You’re right, there are a lot of options out there. It’s a question I hear often, especially with so much conflicting info online and parents just trying to make safe, informed choices. The short answer: look for a broad-spectrum, SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients sit on top of the skin and are generally gentler for babies and kids.

Lotions tend to offer better coverage than sprays, though sprays can be used if applied outdoors and rubbed in well. Once your baby is 6 months or older, sunscreen becomes part of the outdoor routine, especially on areas not covered by clothing, like ears, necks, and hands.

As for concerns about “toxic” ingredients, some ingredients like oxybenzone have raised questions and concerns. That’s one reason many families prefer mineral sunscreens, but it’s also important not to panic. If you're curious about how kids’ sunscreens are developed, the real differences between mineral and chemical formulas, concerns about ingredients like oxybenzone, and how to apply sunscreen effectively, this podcast episode breaks it all down.

And remember: sunscreen is just one layer of sun protection. Shade, hats, UPF clothing, and breaks from the heat all matter too.

For product picks, age-specific guidance, and tips that make sunscreen less of a struggle, read the PedsDocTalk Sunscreen Blog.

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