Toddler Sleep Problems
Overcoming Toddler Sleep Problems
Executive Summary by IPR Wire Staff Writer and M Jayne
Toddlers Sleep Problems
As many parents can tell you, toddler sleep problems are very common. When children this age start to explore their world as well as their autonomy, it is not uncommon for them to develop disturbances during their daytime or nighttime rest periods. If the toddler sleep problems in your home are as simple as nightmares, this is something that most kids will grow out of. Nightmares are the natural result of your toddler beginning to really explore their imagination.
Other toddler sleep problems develop as a result of your child’s growth and their changing bodies. The toddler period is a common age for allergies, and real issues can develop with regards to breathing, swallowing, and snoring. If you suspect that your toddler’s sleep challenges might be physiological in nature, you should make an appointment to see your family doctor.
Many children never learn to rest on their own without the help of their parents, and - for many parents - it isn’t until the toddler years that they finally decide that their child needs a bed of their own!
With these areas under control toddler sleep problems will be solved and parents will have a pleasant, warm and cuddly bedtime, free from screaming, night waking, and health issues.
1. Shshsh…. Don’t say the words “it’s a bedtime.” or anything even close to. Instead use atmosphere and quality time with your toddler to let him know it’s time to wind down. This manipulation should begin 20 minutes BEFORE the time you put in place for your toddler to be in bed.
Create a cozy, calm and quiet atmosphere. Dim the lights, watch a little Animal Planet and cuddle with your toddler. A baby massage is a wonderful relaxation technique for both parent and toddler and can be done as part of the winding down process.
2. Find and Remind. On the way to his room, think of something fun and exciting for your toddler to do the next day. It could be an afternoon of play dough fun, or perhaps he has a party to go to, or finger painting, or a play in the park. Remind him of it.
3. The Bedroom: short and sweet. This is an area many parents get wrong. At bedtime your toddler’s bedroom should be within the same atmosphere as when you were winding him down. Prepare his bedroom before you start the winding down process. Bedroom atmosphere encompasses a night light and soft music.
The time you spend in your toddler’s room after he is in bed needs to be short and sweet. Sit on edge of the bed next to your toddler and read a story, softly. Stroke his hair or use his favorite toy. Quietly remind him of the fun that awaits him the next day if he gets a good night rest. Mention that you are also very tired and heading off to bed. Kiss him goodnight and off you go.
4. When he starts to cry, tell him you love him and you will check on him in a bit before you go to bed. Ignore his crying. While in his room do not appear stressed. Know in your mind that all will be well. Your toddler will feel this and it will help him adjust to his new bedtime routine.
Solving toddler sleep problems of this nature can be a real challenge, but there are definitely some time-tested strategies that have been proven to work.
It is imperative parents ensure toddler gets quality and quantity sleep every night. Techniques must be held to on a nightly basis in order for them to take a strong hold and be effective. All good things come in time, fixing toddler sleep problems is no different. The rewards for toddler and parents are worth the effort.
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