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Sleep Aides for Your Toddler
Author: Heather Montgomery
The end of a long day can cause total opposite feelings for parents and toddlers. For parents, the end of the day can symbolize a time to wind down and relax without worrying about what your toddler is getting into, as well as a time for some much needed "me" or couple time. However for toddlers, night time may elicit feelings of fear and anxiety if they aren't able to fall asleep on their own. Teaching your child to fall asleep on his own and establishing healthy sleep habits will help him throughout his life. Here are some sleeping tips that may help your child learn to self-soothe and fall asleep on his own.
Start a Routine
Toddlers do well when they know what to expect; it can bring them comfort to know the same thing will happen every night. So, try to establish a routine to do every night before bed. Find solutions that work well for you. For our family, from dinner on, we have the same type of routine every night. We have playtime, whether it be dancing to upbeat music or playing a game, then we do bath and PJ's. Each of our kids go to bed at a different time, so we start with our youngest and read a book or sing a song, then do some back scratching and kisses good night. Unless our kids are sick, this routine usually results in our kids being very close to asleep by the time we leave the room.
Find a Lovey
Many children find comfort in the familiar items that they have with them through the day. If your child is partial to a blanket, toy, or other item, put the item in bed with them. If you choose to go this route, you may want to have a back-up, in case the lovey gets lost or damaged. Your child may also need to be weaned off this aide later in life, which may make a lovey just a short-term solution.
Music or Sound Machine
While it is normal to wake at night when switching positions, our bodies are made to quickly fall asleep after these small disturbances. However, if your toddler is a light sleeper or has an active imagination, the smallest creak in the house or sound outside may wake your toddler and cause anxiety. Consider placing a small CD player or sound machine in her room to drown out any "scary" noises.
Room-Darkening Curtains
A street lamp or an early sun rise can disrupt your toddler's ability to sleep well and stay asleep. Consider purchasing room-darkening shades to keep your child's room dark and free of natural light during sleep.
Night Light
Some toddlers are frightened by the dark and the unknown that may be lurking in the room. Consider installing a night light bright enough to illuminate the room, but not too bright as to disrupt his sleep. Take your child with you to pick out the night light so that he can feel comfortable with the light and be excited to use it.
Some Final Tips
One thing that no parent should do without consulting their pediatrician is use medical or herbal sleeping aides. Giving your child medicine or herbs can cause dire consequences, such as accidental overdose or dependence on the sleep aide.
No solution will work for every family. Listen to your child and watch her body language to see which aides help to ensure that the whole family gets a better night of sleep.
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