Once kids hit the toddler stage, they begin to crave more independence, which can mean fighting sleep even when they're tired. As the website for CNN pointed out, kids may try to assert their independence around bedtime, making it difficult for them to get the sleep they need. Asking to stay up later or pulling out all types of stalling techniques may be their way of expressing their desire to be in charge.

"For kids, feeling scared or worried at bedtime is one of the main reasons for having trouble falling asleep," Kid's Health noted. It could be your little one gets anxious when alone in their dark room, or can't sleep because they hear strange sounds at night that make them worried. By reminding them they are safe and providing comforts — like lullabies and stuffed animals to hug — kids can feel more secure about falling asleep on their own.

Kids can be confusing creatures, so much so that they have energy spikes when they are exhausted. As What To Expect's website pointed out, "hyperactive behavior, fidgeting, and loudness are not signs of excessive energy; rather, they are the wiped-out toddler’s last-ditch effort to keep himself awake." Once they reach this point, sleep may be a tough fight.

Even if your little one has not trouble falling asleep, she may have trouble staying asleep. As Real Simple magazine pointed out, kids body's aren't ready to hold urine while asleep until their about 7 years old, on average. Wetting the bed may cause your child to wake up, and stay awake, and different points throughout the night.

Waking up throughout the night is common for babies and children of all ages, but certain skills are needed to help them drift back to dreamland. According to the Sleep Health Foundation, kids who are capable of self-settling fall back asleep after brief periods of waking throughout the night. This is a skill that can be practiced at bedtime by allowing your child to fall asleep without your assistance or presence.

Big life changes, such as a move to a new house, can trigger sleep troubles for little ones. As Parents magazine pointed out, sleep problems can occur from stress, no matter your age. Chances are, this will pass with time, and sleep cycles should return to normal.

Certain medications can make it hard for kids to sleep. Asthma, allergy, and cold medications have the potential to interfere with sleep, as Children's Health reported. If you child is taking one of these and finding it difficult to sleep, you may want to explore other options with your pediatrician.

In my house, it's the scary dreams that wake my little ones, sending them to my room for comfort. Some night they fall back asleep by my side, but other times they lie awake replaying the frightening images. We all know how a bad dream can shake you up, so it's no wonder theses instances hit kiddos so hard.

Having the right environment can welcome sleep. To prepare your child's room for a night of solid shut eye, Kid's Health suggested clearing the bed of toys, keeping a cool temperature, and starting to calm down before it's time to sleep.