How do I deal with a toddler who demands a cartoon before every nap or bedtime? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a toddler develops a habit of watching a cartoon before every sleep, it can quickly become a dependency that disrupts the natural calming process. The aim is not to abruptly take away their source of comfort, but to gently and lovingly replace it with a more restful and sustainable routine. 

Gradually Shift the Wind-Down Routine 

Rather than cutting out the cartoon completely, which can cause distress, start by simply moving it a little earlier in the wind-down period. You can then replace the final ten to fifteen minutes before they get into bed with a much calmer activity, such as looking at a picture book or listening to a soft lullaby. This gentle transition honours their routine while slowly creating space for a new one. 

Introduce a New, Predictable Sleep Cue 

Toddlers feel secure when they know what is coming next. Introduce a new, consistent, and soothing cue that signals it is time for sleep. This could be dimming the lights, giving them a warm drink, or singing a particular nasheed. Over time, this becomes the new, comforting signal for bedtime, replacing the cartoon in their expectations. 

Be Both Consistent and Calm 

Expect some resistance to the change at first. Your role is to respond with warmth and certainty, not with frustration. Use simple, reassuring phrases like, ‘I know, it is hard to change. Now it is time for our bedtime story.’ Your calm consistency is what will help your toddler to eventually trust the new routine and feel safe within it. 

Make the New Routine Feel Special 

The new replacement activity should be something your child genuinely looks forward to, not just a rule they have to follow. Your own enthusiasm is key. When you treat story time or dua time as a special, cherished moment together, your child will begin to see it that way too, which will naturally help to shift their preference. 

By transitioning gradually and providing appealing, calming alternatives, you can respect your toddler’s need for comfort while guiding them towards much healthier and more peaceful sleep habits. 

Spiritual Insight 

In the Islamic tradition, bedtime is a sacred opportunity to close the day with gratitude, peace, and a conscious remembrance of Allah Almighty. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Rome (30), Verse 23: 

‘And amongst His Signs (of the infinite truth) is your sleep, whether in the night or in the day, and your continuous discovery of His benefactions…’ 

This verse reminds us that sleep itself is a blessing and a divine sign of Allah’s mercy, and as such, it should be approached with a sense of peace and mindfulness. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3874, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘When you go to bed, say: ‘In Your Name, my Lord, I lie down and in Your Name I rise.’ 

This beautiful supplication teaches us that ending the day with the remembrance of Allah invites tranquillity and divine protection into our rest. By replacing the artificial stimulation of cartoons with a calm, faith-enriched bedtime routine, you not only encourage better sleep but also instil peaceful, spiritual habits that can nurture your child’s soul.