If you find yourself hovering over your toddler's crib, jumping at every whimper, or staying in the room until they're deeply asleep, you're not alone—but research suggests this approach may actually work against your child's sleep. Overprotective parenting is linked to more sleep problems in toddlers and preschoolers, likely because children miss chances to develop their own soothing skills. The reassuring part? This is something you can genuinely change. Backing off slightly—letting your child have a few moments to settle themselves, or stepping out of the room gradually—isn't neglectful. It gives your little one space to build confidence and self-soothe, which actually leads to better sleep. Start small: maybe you stay a few feet further away, or wait a few extra seconds before responding. Small shifts often help.