Toddler Sleep Regressions: What’s Causing the Sudden Shift?
/As a parent, you might find yourself wondering, “What happened to my great sleeper?” Toddlers and preschoolers who once slept peacefully may begin to experience sleep disruptions. Why? To put it simply, toddlerhood is an exciting but challenging stage. Research published in Sleep Medicine Reviews shows that toddlers often delay bedtime, seek more attention, and wake up during the night as they assert growing independence. These behaviors are normal and closely tied to developmental changes at this age.
Here’s a look at some common reasons that might be affecting your toddler’s sleep and how to address them.
Developmental Milestones
Toddlers experience major developmental leaps, especially in language and cognitive skills. Learning to speak or mastering new abilities can temporarily disrupt their sleep patterns.
Attention-Seeking Behavior
Toddlers may crave extra attention, especially after changes like starting daycare or welcoming a new sibling. This can lead to bedtime resistance and night wakings looking to get those needs met.
Increased Independence
Testing boundaries is part of toddlerhood! As they gain independence, they naturally want to push boundaries to see how much control they have. This can show up as bedtime battles, new night wakings or early mornings.
Transitioning to a Bed
Moving from a crib to a toddler bed is a big milestone that often causes sleep disruptions. The freedom to get out of bed may make bedtime more challenging and lead to night wakings.
Nighttime Fears
As their imagination grows, so do nighttime fears. Nightmares or fear of the dark may arise, making bedtime feel intimidating.
Inconsistent Bedtime Routine
A predictable bedtime routine is key for toddlers to feel secure. Inconsistencies or grey boundaries around bedtime can impact their ability to wind down and go to sleep easily.
Illness
Whether from colds, ear infections, or teething, illness can make falling and staying asleep difficult for toddlers.
If your toddler’s sleep is off track, here are things that can help:
Establish a Consistent Routine: Toddlers thrive on routine, and having a consistent bedtime routine helps signal that it’s time to wind down for the day. A predictable pattern, like a bath, brushing teeth, reading a story, and cuddling before bed, can help your toddler transition smoothly from playtime to sleep.
Set Clear Boundaries: While toddlers may test limits, having clear and consistent bedtime rules can reinforce good sleep habits.
Limit Screen Time: The blue light from screens can disrupt melatonin production, the hormone that regulates sleep so reduce screen time in the evening, especially in the hour or two before bed.
Encourage Physical Activity Toddlers have a lot of energy to burn! Ensuring they get enough physical activity during the day and after dinner can make it easier for them to fall asleep and stay asleep. Activities like playing outside, running, or even dancing around the living room can help them use up excess energy!
Be Patient with Nighttime Fears As their imaginations grow, toddlers may start to experience nighttime fears. This is normal and often a passing phase. Comfort and validate your child, reassure them that they’re safe and talk to them about what may help them (a nightlight, a new stuffie to cuddle, etc).
Sleep disruptions in toddlers are common, but they are usually temporary if you stay consistent with your routines and boundaries. Understanding the causes and implementing a few simple strategies can help you and your toddler get the rest you need.
If you have questions or need support with your little one’s sleep, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance. With a few adjustments, restful nights are within reach!
