Subscription orders can be cancelled at anytime. Free delivery on all subsequent subscription orders. Find out more about subscriptions.
They’re easy and fuss free
Your products are automatically sent to you
You save up to 10% when you sign up for a subscription
You can cancel at any time
Is bedtime a nightly struggle in your house? Does your toddler resist naps and wake up in the middle of the night? You're not alone!
We’ve written this dedicated guide to help toddler parents (like you) understand common sleep challenges in toddlers, and to offer effective solutions for creating a peaceful and predictable bedtime routine that works for all the family.
Toddlers, with their active fun-filled days and restorative daytime naps, have specific sleep schedules. Bedtime can sometimes be challenging due to separation anxiety and a desire to continue playing.
Read on for our top tips to help you get your toddler to sleep.
To keep resistance to a minimum, consider giving your toddler limited choices, such as choosing their pyjamas or which book to read for tonight's bedtime story. Maintain a consistent and calm approach while setting clear boundaries. By providing small choices and maintaining a consistent routine, you can help create a more positive bedtime experience for everyone involved.
It's best to avoid vigorous activities right before bedtime as it can make it harder for your child to wind down and sleep. But, staying active during the day and getting out in the sunlight and fresh air can help toddlers sleep better at night.
Encourage them to get any restless wiggles out with some fun activities. Whether it's a game of tag in the park, a lively dance party in the kitchen while you make lunch, or even a simple walk around the block after nursery, physical activity will help burn off excess energy.
It can be helpful to start your routine about 30-45 minutes before bedtime, never exceeding 60 minutes.
Avoiding sugary treats in the hours leading up to bedtime can significantly improve your toddler's sleep quality. Sugar causes a spike in blood sugar levels, leading to increased energy and difficulty winding down. This can make it harder for them to fall asleep and stay asleep through the night.
As adults, we all know how relaxing a soak in the bath can be, and toddlers are no different (although there may be a few more toy sharks and boats floating around).
You can make your toddler’s pre-bed bath times as relaxing as possible by keeping the water warm, not hot, and using gentle, tear-free products, singing soothing songs, telling a calming story, or just talking about your day. After their bath, gently pat them dry with a soft towel, massage them with a light layer of child-safe lotion, and dress them in soft lightweight sleepwear.
Dimming the lights and switching off electronics like TVs, tablets, and phones about an hour before bedtime is crucial for creating a relaxing sleep environment. The blue light emitted from devices like these can trick your child's brain into thinking it's still daytime, making it harder for them to fall asleep. By powering down and creating a calmer atmosphere, you can help your toddler wind down and prepare for a restful night's sleep.
The 5-4-3-2-1 method is a grounding technique that can help calm your toddler's mind and body before bed.
It involves having them identify five things they can see, four things they can touch, three things they can hear, two things they can smell, and one thing they can taste. This can help shift their focus from racing thoughts to the present moment, making it easier for them to fall asleep.
Explore the Range
Getting a toddler to sleep in their own bed can be challenging, but it can help to praise your child when they stay in their own bed for longer, and eventually, all night.
Creating a safe and sleep-friendly bedroom for your toddler will also help.
It may take some time for your child to adjust to sleeping in their own bed. Be patient and consistent with your approach. Every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. If you're having trouble getting your child to sleep in their own bed, consult with your GP or a child sleep specialist for personalised guidance.
To help your toddler sleep until 7am, try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, including weekends. Try to limit afternoon naps, and create a dark and quiet sleep environment. Using a blackout window blind might help during the summer months when the sun rises earlier. You could also try a sleep trainer clock to help them learn when to stay in bed and when to get up and play.
To help your toddler sleep through the night, try to establish a consistent bedtime routine with a warm bath, a story, and a quiet lullaby. Stick to a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends (when possible). Create a relaxing sleep environment that is dark, quiet, and cool. Limit screen time before bed, and don’t hesitate to get in touch with your GP if you have concerns about your child’s sleep.
Remember, it’s very common for children of all ages to wake up during the night. This is a normal part of your child's development, but it can be frustrating, especially if you’re a sleep-deprived parent! Every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient and persistent, and you'll eventually find a routine that works for your family.
