A parent is concerned that their 3-year-old child is having problems with sleeping. Which recommendation would you make to the parent?

For a 3-year-old experiencing sleep difficulties, reading a story before bedtime is the most appropriate recommendation. Establishing a consistent, calming bedtime routine — which commonly includes reading — helps signal to the child's nervous system that sleep is approaching. This practice promotes relaxation, provides comfort and security, and is a well-supported behavioral strategy for pediatric sleep health. Keeping the room completely dark is not recommended for toddlers and preschoolers, who commonly experience nighttime fears; a small nightlight is often more appropriate and reassuring. Having the child sleep in the parent's bed, while a cultural practice in some families, is generally discouraged from a safety standpoint and can create long-term sleep dependency issues. Restricting naps during the day is not appropriate for a 3-year-old, as children this age still physiologically need daytime sleep; abrupt nap removal can lead to overtiredness, which paradoxically makes nighttime sleep harder, not easier. Most children do not fully outgrow napping until ages 3 to 5 years, and forcing nap elimination prematurely is likely to worsen the sleep problem. Therefore, a structured, soothing pre-sleep ritual such as reading is the safest and most evidence-supported recommendation for this age group.