My Best Toddler Sleep Tips!

Toddlers are a whole new ball game when it comes to sleep! All of a sudden, you have a tiny human with a mind of their own, capable of stall tactics and negotiation. Yikes! We could talk about toddlers for days but here are my top tips without getting too deep.

*Evaluate the sleep schedule. When there are big time issues at bedtime, I frequently find that the nap needs shortened or pulled all together if the child is around age 3 and older.

*Make a bedtime chart with your child using pictures. The chart should include the usual requests your child makes but don’t make it too long. You should be able to get through your routine in about 30 minutes. The steps happen in the same order each night and each step happens only once!

*Ditch any screen time before bed! 1 hour screen free before bed at a minimum!

*Use a toddler ok-to-wake clock. This gives your toddler a visual of when it is sleep time and when it is morning. Do not deviate from the clock rule!

*Consequences are key. This is the way to really dissuade your child from getting out of bed. All kids are different so you may have to get creative in coming up with something that works for yours but what is a consequence if it isn’t unpleasant? A really simple one is closing the door. Give a warning for the first offense, then if the behavior (getting out of bed or being very disruptive and not trying to sleep) continues, you shut the door and hold it for 1 minute. Each time your child tests you, you add on a minute or so. Consistency is key!

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