As a parent, it can be frustrating when your once great sleeper suddenly starts waking up at night, fighting bedtime, or experiencing other sleep disruptions. This change in sleep patterns is often referred to as toddler sleep regression. But why does it happen, and what can you do to help your little one (and yourself!) to get back to sleeping soundly?
Why Is My Toddler Suddenly Waking Up at Night?
Toddlerhood is a period of incredible growth and development, but these changes can sometimes disrupt sleep. As toddlers assert their growing independence, they may delay bedtime, seek more attention, and wake up more frequently at night, according to research in Sleep Medicine Reviews. These behaviors are completely normal and closely tied to the developmental milestones they are achieving at this age.
Here are some common monsters behind toddler sleep regression:
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- Developmental Leaps: Learning new skills, like walking, talking, or potty training, can be exciting but exhausting! These developmental milestones can temporarily disrupt sleep as your child processes all the new information and experiences.
- Separation Anxiety: As toddlers become more aware of their surroundings, they may experience separation anxiety, especially at bedtime. This can lead to increased clinginess and difficulty falling asleep without a parent nearby.
- Testing Boundaries: Toddlers are notorious for testing limits and asserting their independence. This can manifest as bedtime resistance, refusing to stay in bed, or frequent night wakings.
- Transitioning to a Bed: Moving to a “big kid” bed is a thrilling adventure for toddlers, but all that newfound freedom can lead to lots of exploring – even at bedtime! This can make it harder for them to settle down and stay in bed throughout the night.
- Nightmares and Fears: As imaginations grow, so do fears. Nightmares, a fear of the dark, or monsters under the bed can make bedtime a scary experience for toddlers.
- Inconsistent Bedtime Routine: Without a consistent bedtime routine, toddlers can struggle to understand that it’s time to wind down. Predictability helps them feel secure and ready for sleep.
- Illness or Discomfort: Teething, ear infections, colds, and other illnesses can cause discomfort and disrupt sleep.
Solutions for Better Sleep
If your toddler is experiencing sleep regression, don’t worry! There are several strategies you can implement to help them get back on track:
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- Maintain a Consistent Bedtime Routine: Establish a calming and predictable bedtime routine that includes relaxing activities like a warm bath, reading books, and quiet playtime.
- Set Clear Boundaries: While it’s important to be understanding, set clear and consistent limits around bedtime. Let your child know what is expected of them and follow through with gentle but firm consequences for any bedtime battles.
- Create a Sleep haven for Your Toddler: This means a dark room (blackout curtains are your friend!), a quiet space free from distracting noises (white noise can help!), and a comfortably cool temperature.
- Limit Screen Time: Avoid screen time in the hour or two before bed, as the blue light emitted from screens can interfere with melatonin production and make it harder to fall asleep.
- Encourage Physical Activity: Make sure your toddler gets plenty of physical activity during the day, but avoid overly stimulating activities close to bedtime.
- Offer Comfort and Reassurance: If your child wakes up at night, offer comfort and reassurance, but avoid reinforcing the behavior by bringing them into your bed or staying with them until they fall back asleep.
- Rule Out Medical Issues: If sleep problems persist, consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the sleep disturbances.
Final Thoughts
Sleep regressions are a common part of toddlerhood, but they don’t have to be a permanent fixture. By understanding the potential causes and implementing consistent and supportive strategies, you can help your toddler (and yourself!) get the restful sleep they need.
Need more support? Upchild offers personalised sleep consultations and customised sleep plans to help families overcome sleep challenges and achieve their sleep goals. If you’re ready to get some expert help when it comes to your child’s sleep, I’d love to invite you to schedule a free sleep evaluation call so that I can learn more about your struggles and we can see if we’d be a great fit!
By working together, we can ensure your baby gets the restful sleep they need to grow, learn, and explore their world, both at daycare and beyond.