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Why Sleep Matters for Toddlers
Sleep is very important for your toddler’s growing body and mind. While they sleep, their brain is busy processing everything they’ve learned during the day, from new words to how to share toys.It’s also when their body grows. Did you know your toddler will reach half their adult height by age two? When your little one sleeps well, they wake up happy, cooperative, and ready for the day.
Without enough rest, you might notice mood swings, fussiness, or even trouble with eating. So, getting the right amount of sleep is key to keeping your toddler healthy and happy!
How Much Sleep Do Toddlers Need
Every toddler is different, but there are some general sleep guidelines you can keep in mind.Take a look at this clear breakdown based on age:
- 12 to 18 months: Around 14 hours of sleep in total. This usually means 2 hours of daytime naps (often split into two) and about 12 hours at night.
- 18 to 24 months: Up to 14 hours total, including one daytime nap of about 2 hours and 12 hours of nighttime sleep.
- 2 to 2½ years: About 13 to 13.5 hours of sleep, with a daytime nap of 1 to 1.5 hours and roughly 12 hours at night.
- 2½ to 3 years: Around 12 hours of sleep mostly at night. This is because many toddlers drop their daytime nap by this age.
What Are Common Toddler Sleep Challenges?
Toddlers can be unpredictable when it comes to sleep. These are some common issues you might face and why they happen:- Refusing to settle at bedtime: If naps are too long or too late, bedtime becomes a struggle. On the other hand, if they skip naps, overtiredness can also keep them awake. Bright lights, noise, or too many toys in the room can add to the problem.
- Getting out of bed: Once your child moves from a cot to a bed, they might pop out of it to explore. This could be because they’re not tired enough or just testing their new freedom.
- Needing you to stay: During growth spurts, your toddler might feel clingy and want you to lie with them. While cuddling is lovely, it can quickly become a habit they rely on to fall asleep.
- Waking up at night: Normal but frustrating. It can be due to temperature changes, needing the toilet, or sudden noises. Some toddlers wake out of habit if they know you’ll engage with them.
- Refusing daytime naps: If your toddler is under 2½ and won’t nap, it might be too early in the day or the routine isn’t calming enough. If they’re over 2½ and consistently refuse, they might be ready to drop their nap altogether.
- Waking for milk: After 8 months, night feeds are usually not about hunger. Instead, toddlers link milk with falling asleep, which can affect their daytime appetite.
How to Help Your Toddler Fall Asleep
Getting your toddler to sleep well is all about setting the right mood. Try these simple strategies:- Stick to a bedtime routine: A warm bath, brushing teeth, and a story can signal it’s time to sleep. End with a consistent phrase like “Good night, I love you.”
- Create a soothing environment: Dim the lights early and use white noise or soft music to block out sudden sounds.
- Limit screen time: Turn off TVs and phones at least 30 to 60 minutes before bed. Screens make it harder for kids to feel sleepy.
- Encourage quiet activities: Colouring, puzzles, or reading are perfect before bed.
- Tuck them in sleepy but awake: Place your toddler in bed when they’re drowsy but not fully asleep. This helps them learn to fall asleep on their own.
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FAQs on Toddler Sleep 101: How Much Sleep do They Really Need and How to Get Them to Sleep
- What is the best bedtime for toddlers?
Most toddlers do well with a bedtime between 7:00 and 9:00 PM. - Is co-sleeping safe for toddlers?
Yes, co-sleeping can be safer for toddlers over 1 year old compared to infants under 12 months.
