Ask Dr. Mona

Hair twirling is a common self-soothing behavior for toddlers. It’s often a way for them to relax, regulate their emotions, or even occupy their hands when they’re tired or deep in thought. While it’s usually harmless, if it’s leading to stubborn tangles, you can try a few ways to redirect this habit.

If you notice your child twirling their hair, try gently guiding their hands toward something else. Avoid saying, “Stop twirling your hair,” but try offering an alternative like, “Let’s use your hands to hold this blanket instead.” Keeping it low pressure can help avoid making the habit more appealing.

It can also help to watch for patterns. If the hair twirling happens more at certain times– like when he is sleepy or seeking comfort–it can help to introduce other soothing strategies, such as holding a stuffed animal or rubbing a blanket.

Hair twirling often fades with time, especially when given other ways to self-soothe. If it ever seems excessive or is causing distress (like pulling lots of hair out), it’s worth discussing with your pediatrician. But in most cases, a little redirection, patience, and time go a long way!

Transitioning to a toddler bed can be a big adjustment– especially when little ones realize they now have the freedom to get up! It’s completely okay to take a step back and reintroduce the crib if that feels right for your family right now. There’s no rush–every child adjusts at their own pace.

If you decide to try the toddler bed again, making the transition feel exciting but predictable can help. Let her be part of the process by picking out the bedding or a stuffed animal that “sleeps” in the bed with her. Keeping the bedtime routine exactly the same as it was in the crib can also provide consistency and reassurance.

Here are 3 tips to help with this transition:

• Set clear boundaries and stay consistent– the newfound freedom of a toddler bed can be exciting, but clear expectations help. If she gets up, calmly walk her back with a simple, “It’s time to sleep.” Avoid long conversations or extra engagement so it doesn’t turn into a game. Consistency is key– even if it takes several nights of walking her back. You’re helping her learn.

• Use a sticker chart for motivation– if your child responds well to positive reinforcement, a sticker chart can be a fun way to encourage staying in bed. Each morning she successfully stays in her room, she gets a sticker! After earning a set number of stickers, she can get a small reward– if she struggles, try to keep it positive: “No sticker today, but we’ll try again tonight. I know you can do it!”

• Try a “bedtime pass” system or “stay in the room” approach– some children do well with a visual cue, like a bedtime pass. You can give her one or two passes per night to use if she truly needs something, like one extra hug or a sip of water. Once they’re used up, bedtime is bedtime. Another option is staying in the room briefly as she falls asleep– make it clear that you will only stay in the room if she stays in her bed.

For more guidance on navigating toddler behaviors and transitions, check out the Toddlers & Tantrums course by PedsDocTalk. It’s full of practical, real-life tips to navigate these tricky moments with confidence–without constant power struggles.

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