Abstract: A system and method for training young children to return to sleep when they wake without requiring a parent to come to their side. Illustrative embodiments of the invention help eliminate night awakenings, ensure consistent naptime, establish a bedtime routine and allow a caregiver to set an infant or toddler's sleep schedule. Illustrative embodiments use a visual stimulus, such as a light, to create a strong association with appropriate sleep behaviors and to provide information to the child as to whether it is time to get up or continue sleeping.