Getting a toddler to sleep can be a challenge. Some toddlers have a particularly difficult time getting to sleep, and others wake up routinely during the night, and roll out of their bed full of energy. Fortunately, there are some things that you can do to help your toddler sleep. They can include:

- Toddlers are full of energy, and need to have lots of outlets to work some of that energy off. If your toddler spends most of the day watching TV or sitting at a table coloring, he probably won’t want to sleep at night. Make sure that your toddler has enough activity during the day.

- Be consistent. When it is time for bed, put your toddler to bed. Make sure she’s had a drink, a story, or whatever else she might ask for once you turn out the light. Once the light is out, unless there is an emergency, she needs to know that you are done for the day.

- A livable and consistent bedtime routine can also go a long way to helping the toddler who won’t sleep. By including activities such as brushing his teeth, reading a book, and having a bedtime snack, he will get used to the pattern of getting into bed and going to sleep when it is time. A routine will contribute greatly to your toddler’s emotional and physical health, as well as helping him to sleep.

- If at all possible, you should try to avoid too much excitement at bedtime. The period between dinner and bedtime should be generally relaxed, and geared toward helping your toddler to slow down for the day.

- A comfortable and quiet sleeping environment is another essential component. If your house tends to be loud, try putting on some soft music for your toddler at bedtime. Make sure she’s got her favorite stuffed animal or blanket. You should also try to avoid having toys in the bed with her.

- Watch out for naps. Some toddlers will be ready to give up afternoon naps by the age of 2, while others may take much longer before they are ready to give them up. If your toddler is sleeping for several hours in the middle of the day, it is not surprising that he won’t sleep at night.

- If your toddler regularly has trouble going to sleep and you have tried everything else, it is possible that he may have a sleep disorder of some sort. Consider speaking to your health care provider about the problem, to see if there are treatments available that might help.

Posted in Baby and Toddler

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