A Comprehensive Guide for Parents
Insomnia is one of the most difficult things for a person to manage. When you don’t get enough sleep, it is impossible to perform on all levels and be truly pleasant and happy. When your child is a baby, you endure it because it is inevitable, it is a period where you will necessarily experience it until his biological clock is established. But as he gets older and still doesn’t sleep, it becomes harder to keep it up and it doesn’t contribute to the well-being of the child itself. Sleep is a basic need for all humans and helps in the development of the child’s brain. As loving and beautiful as it is for some parents to continue tucking their children into their arms until older age, sleeping standing up or waking up countless times in the night, it is essential that at some point they give their child the opportunity as they grow up to feel that they have the power to be calm and fall asleep without their parent’s involvement. Mastering the art of toddler sleep as they get older is crucial for both of you.
Αfter they have achieved it, they will feel extremely strong and self-sufficient; their sleep quality will improve and everyone will be happier, more confident and ready to enjoy the moments of the day ahead. I experienced this very strongly with my first born who was unable to sleep on his own for a year and a half. No matter how tired I was, I would keep on doing it for ever because I sincerely believed that this way my child would feel close to me all the time. Until I got pregnant and gave birth to our twins. With two more babies in the house it was impossible to stay close to him all night. I was also very concerned that my son wasn’t getting as much rest as he should have, he was constantly whining and crying all day long.
I decided to help him, no matter how hard it was, I would do it for him above all and then for myself. It ended up being much easier than I thought, it only took me two days and after that, he was much calmer and I was more balanced. I struggled to find the right method though. I came across many different methods, others seemed too harsh for me or just far from our family’s standards. By filtering the information, I was able to craft a strategy that fit our pace and the process rolled out much more smoothly.
So, I began by following these important steps while building out my strategy:
Understanding Toddler Sleep
Before diving into the how-to, you should understand first the basics of toddler sleep. Toddlers typically need around 10-14 hours of sleep per day, including naps. However, every child is unique, so it’s essential to observe your toddler’s individual sleep patterns and cues.
Creating a Consistent Bedtime Routine
Consistency is key when it comes to toddler sleep. Establishing a soothing bedtime routine signals to your child that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. This may include activities such as a warm bath, reading a bedtime story, or gentle cuddles. Aim for a consistent bedtime each night to regulate your toddler’s internal clock. This may mean that at least for a few days you are going to end all outdoor activities and make sure to be home at the same hour and do the same preparation each and every night. After his sleep is established you will be able to do anything you like with your kid without concerning whether you are going to sleep later that night. So, it will get easier if you stay consistent and don’t give up.
Setting the Stage for Sleep
Create an optimal sleep environment for your toddler by ensuring their bedroom is conducive to rest. Keep the room dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Consider using white noise machines or soft music to drown out any disruptive sounds that may disturb your child’s sleep.
Encouraging Self-Soothing Techniques
Teaching your toddler to self-soothe is a valuable skill that promotes independent sleep. While it’s natural for toddlers to seek comfort from caregivers, gradually introducing self-soothing techniques can help them learn to fall asleep on their own. This may involve gentle reassurance, such as patting their back or offering a favorite stuffed animal.
Implementing Positive Sleep Associations
Associate bedtime with positive experiences to help your toddler develop a healthy relationship with sleep. This could mean introducing a special blanket or toy that they only use at bedtime, creating a comforting association with sleep. Avoid using screens or stimulating activities close to bedtime, as these can interfere with your child’s ability to relax and unwind.
Addressing Sleep Challenges
It’s common for toddlers to experience sleep challenges, such as night awakenings or resistance to bedtime. When faced with these hurdles, approach them with patience and understanding. Consistency is key, so stick to your established bedtime routine and gradually adjust it as needed. If persistent sleep issues arise, consult with your pediatrician for personalized guidance and support.
Celebrating Sleep Milestones
As your toddler masters the art of sleep, celebrate their progress and achievements along the way. Whether it’s sleeping through the night for the first time or successfully transitioning to a toddler bed, acknowledge and praise their efforts. Positive reinforcement encourages continued success and fosters a positive attitude towards sleep.
After getting everything ready, I started one night, all anxious about the procedure and how my kid would handle it. After giving him a nice, warm bath, dim lighting, calm music playing, I dressed him up, kept him in my arms, fed him, sang to him, talked to him in a quiet voice and before he fell asleep on me, I put him to his bed, said goodnight, gave him a kiss and left the room. At first, he didn’t like that, as expected. He started complaining and crying. After two minutes I got back inside, hold him and reassured him I was there for him. I only hold him though for a few minutes just enough to calm him down and not get him to sleep on me. Afterwards, back to bed, gave him a kiss goodnight and left the room. I had to do that 4 times and each time I counted one or two more minutes. In the end he fell asleep all by himself, on his own bed and woke up beautifully in the morning. We couldn’t believe it. I repeated the same steps every night for a week and it got easier every time. Until the end of the week, my little boy had learned the way to sleep on his own and so had we.
Training a toddler to sleep requires patience, consistency, and a whole lot of love. By establishing a consistent bedtime routine, creating a soothing sleep environment, and nurturing positive sleep associations, you can help your little one develop healthy sleep habits that will last a lifetime. Remember, every child is unique, so don’t be discouraged by setbacks – with time and dedication, you’ll conquer toddler sleep challenges and enjoy peaceful nights once again. Sweet dreams!
