What if my toddler wakes up frequently at night?

What to Do When Your Toddler is a Frequent Night Waker

As a certified gentle sleep coach, one of the most common concerns I hear from exhausted parents is, "My toddler wakes up a lot at night! What can I do?" If you're reading this bleary-eyed at 3 AM, you're definitely not alone. Frequent night awakenings in toddlers are no uncommon, but that doesn't make them any less draining. The good news is, with a little detective work and some gentle strategies, we can often improve these disrupted nights.

First and foremost, let's acknowledge that toddlers are going through a period of immense development. Their brains are rapidly growing, they're experiencing big emotions, and they're testing boundaries. Night awakenings can stem from a variety of factors, and it's crucial to approach this with patience and understanding.

So, where do we begin? Let's break down some key areas to consider:

1. Rule Out the Obvious:

• Physical Needs: Is your toddler comfortable? Check the room temperature – too hot or too cold can disrupt sleep. Are they thirsty or hungry? While we don't want to create a habit of nighttime feeding for toddlers who no longer need it, a genuine need should be addressed. Ensure they've had a nutritious dinner and if needed, offer water before bed.

• Discomfort: Consider if there might be any underlying physical discomfort. Are they teething? Experiencing tummy troubles? If you suspect a medical issue, always consult your pediatrician.

• Sleep Environment: Is their bedroom conducive to sleep? It should be dark, quiet, and cool. Consider having good quality curtains and a white noise machine to minimize disruptions.

2. Evaluate Their Daytime Sleep:

• Overtiredness vs. Undertiredness: This is a delicate balance. An overtired toddler can actually have more fragmented sleep. Conversely, a toddler who isn't tired enough during the day may struggle to stay asleep at night. Observe their daytime cues and adjust nap times and bedtimes accordingly. As a general guideline, most toddlers still need one nap until around 3-4 years old.

• Nap Length and Timing: An overly long or late afternoon nap can definitely impact nighttime sleep. Experiment with shortening the nap or shifting it earlier.

3. Examine Their Bedtime Routine:

• Consistency is Key: A predictable and calming bedtime routine signals to your toddler that it's time to wind down. This could include a warm bath, quiet story time, and cuddles. Aim for the same routine every night, around the same time.

• Independent Sleep Skills: This is often a significant factor in night awakenings. Does your toddler know how to fall asleep independently at bedtime? If they rely on you to rock, feed, or lie with them until they fall asleep, they will likely need your help to fall back asleep during the night. Gentle sleep training techniques can help foster these independent skills.

4. Address Nighttime Responses:

• Minimize Interaction: When your toddler wakes, try to keep your interactions brief and boring. Avoid turning on bright lights, engaging in lengthy conversations, or bringing them into your bed (unless that's a conscious family choice you're happy with).

• Be Consistent: Consistency is crucial. If you sometimes give in and bring them to your bed after a night waking, it can create confusion and prolong the issue.

5. Consider Developmental Leaps and Transitions:

• Milestones: Teething, potty training, and significant developmental leaps can temporarily disrupt sleep. Offer extra comfort and support during these times, but try to maintain your consistent sleep routines.

• Big Changes: Moving to a new bed, starting daycare, or the arrival of a sibling can all impact sleep. Provide extra reassurance and create a sense of security.

Remember, change takes time and consistency. Be patient with your toddler and yourself. It’s also important to manage your own expectations. Occasional night awakenings are normal, even for good sleepers. However, if frequent night waking is significantly impacting your family's well-being, seeking personalized guidance from a certified gentle sleep coach can provide tailored strategies and support. You don't have to navigate these long nights alone.

If you're facing challenges, please feel free to reach out to book your 30 minute Sweet Dreams Starter call to learn how I can help your family get the gift of sleep.

Yours in sleep,

Tracie / Rest Well Baby

www.restwellbaby.com

Tracie Kesatie is a Certified Gentle Sleep Coach dedicated to helping families with little ones 0-10 years of age achieve a restful night's sleep.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your pediatrician for any concerns about your child's health.