How much sleep does a toddler need?

Its recommended that toddlers get between 11 to 14 hours sleep in every 24 hours, including a nap or 2 during the day. Once your toddler reaches the age of three this will reduce down to approximately 10 to 13 hours. It’s important to remember however that every child is different so yours might need a little more or less than this.

Establishing a Bedtime Routine

Just like adults, toddlers thrive on routine. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine will signal your little one that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Keep it simple and enjoyable. A bath, followed by brushing teeth, reading a story, and sharing cuddles can work wonders in setting the right atmosphere for sleep. These familiar activities signal to your little one that it's time to rest and relax.

Create a Soothing Sleep Environment

Transform your child's sleeping area into a cosy and calming sanctuary. Soft lighting, cool temperatures, and a comfortable sleeping surface are essential ingredients to help your toddler doze off peacefully. Keep the room cool, dark, and quiet. Consider investing in blackout curtains to block out any unwanted light. Experiment with nightlights, soothing sounds like white noise or a gentle lullaby to drown out household noises and create a calming atmosphere.

Promote Daytime Activity and Nap Regularity

Spending time outdoors, and getting enough exercise during the day, can help tire out your little ones and encourage a good night's sleep. Consider taking your toddler for a walk in the park, letting them explore nature while playing games or doing a fun and energetic activity indoors. It's essential to allow toddlers to get their wiggles out and use up their energy during the day to encourage a more restful slumber at night.

Establish a Consistent Nap Schedule

A consistent nap schedule is just as important as a bedtime routine for toddlers. Make sure to establish a nap schedule that works for your little one and stick to it. This routine will encourage healthy sleep habits and prevent your child from becoming overly tired. It's also a good idea to create a routine around the time before naptime, such as reading a story or playing calming music. This consistency will help your child's body recognize when it's time for rest.

Comfort Objects

Toddlers may sometimes experience separation anxiety, which can affect their ability to fall asleep on their own. To help ease their fears, consider introducing a comfort object, such as a favourite stuffed animal or blanket. These objects can provide a sense of security and make the transition to sleep smoother.

Consistency is Key

Consistency is the secret ingredient to successful toddler sleep routines. Try to be consistent with your toddler's bedtime, wake-up time, and nap schedule. By sticking to a predictable routine, your little one will quickly get into the habit of falling asleep easily and staying asleep throughout the night.

Helping your toddler develop good sleep habits is a journey that requires patience and flexibility. By establishing a bedtime routine, creating a soothing sleep environment, promoting daytime activity and nap regularity, fostering a sense of security, and maintaining consistency, you'll be well on your way to enjoying peaceful nights and well-rested mornings.
Remember, every child is unique, so don't be discouraged if there are occasional bumps along the way. With a little trial and error, you'll find the perfect sleep routine that works for your toddler, leading to a happy and well-rested household. Sleep tight, little ones!