6 Sleep Tips Every Toddler Mom Needs to Reclaim Your Nights

Being a toddler mom is a wild ride, especially regarding their sleep. They learn to test boundaries, push the limits (and push our buttons) and see what they can get away with- and unfortunately, this often involved sleep!

For example…did you get your infant sleeping through the night, but then they turn into a toddler and their sleep is a WHOLE other issue and you feel overwhelmed and exhausted (and like you have a newborn again?!)

Do you miss having your nights to yourself after tucking your kiddo into bed, but instead you’re stuck in an endless cycle of putting them back in their beds 100 times or laying with them for hours on end until they fall asleep at night?

Being a mom of a toddler who isn’t sleeping well, or won’t sleep alone, can feel like an endless cycle of sleepless nights and restless days (because who needs a nap when you’ve got ALL.THIS.ENERGY.😅

Just when you think you’ve cracked the code to a peaceful night’s sleep, your little one decides otherwise. But fear not, tired mama, because there are strategies you can implement to help your toddler – and you – get the rest you need. Here are six sleep tips every toddler mom needs to know to reclaim your nights.

Limit Screen Time and Stimulating Activities Before Bed: In today’s digital age, it’s sometimes necessary to use screens, especially when you’re exhausted. However, excessive screen time can interfere with your toddler’s ability to wind down before bed. Instead, opt for one-on-one time with your child, allowing them to lead the play without distractions. Put away your phone and let them guide the activity without giving them instructions (this can help overall behavior, too!). This focused attention not only fosters a stronger bond but also helps them relax before bedtime.

Don’t Move Them to a Toddler Bed Before They’re Ready: Transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed before your kiddo is ready is the biggest reason I see for toddler night time wakings. To avoid unnecessary disruptions to their sleep routine, wait until they’re developmentally ready, usually around age 3 to 3.5. Ensure they’re sleeping well and have good sleep habits in their crib before making the switch to a bed, as this can help prevent bedtime battles and night wakings.

Use Tools: Two of my favorite tools to use for toddler sleep are the OK to wake clock, and the bedtime pass. Incorporating these tools into your bedtime routine can promote consistency and establish healthy sleep habits. First, the ok to wake clock- we use our hatch, and it works so well for this! We implemented it while our son was still in the crib so that he got used to it. We made a big deal in the mornings when we would go in to get him and his clock was green (“Great job buddy, you stayed in your crib until your clock turned green! Green means go!” etc.) Now that he’s in his bed, we have the light on red all night long and then turn green when he can get up. I go way more in depth into this on the podcast episode. For the bedtime pass, I have clients give their toddler one printed out bedtime pass to use at any point during the night. Most kids will use it at the beginning of the night to come out for another sip of water or to ask their parent something VERY important that just simply can not wait for morning….like for example, how many uncles do you have, mom? (true story🤦‍♀️) But some kids will hang on to it all night and not even use it- just helps them to feel safe and confident, knowing they have the option. This tends to work best with older kiddos, age 3.5 and up, who can fully grasp the concept and apply it. I left an example below, but you can download your own customizable bedtime pass for your own kiddo here.

Have a Plan for Night Wakings: It’s essential to have a plan in place for dealing with night wakings before they occur. Discuss strategies with your partner and ensure you’re both on the same page. One method that many parents find effective is the Chair method, a gentle approach to helping your toddler learn to self-soothe and fall asleep independently. After establishing a consistent bedtime routine, sit quietly in a chair near your toddler’s bed or crib. Respond calmly to night wakings with reassurance, avoiding picking them up or taking them out of the crib unless necessary. Over time, gradually move the chair further away as your toddler becomes more comfortable falling asleep on their own. Consistency is key to success with this method, helping your child learn what to expect and establishing a sense of security and predictability in their bedtime routine. If you need help customizing this plan way more in depth to fit you and your child- schedule a call with me here. I can help!

Manage Your Emotions: It’s natural to feel frustrated and overwhelmed when faced with multiple night wakings or fighting to get them down for bed. However, it’s crucial to keep your cool and refrain from expressing anger towards your child while working on their sleep especially. Take a moment to step away if you need to collect yourself, or swap out with your partner for support. Remember, your toddler isn’t trying to give you a hard time – they’re having a hard time themselves. When we respond in anger when they won’t stay in bed, it just sets their progress back and then we end up with mom guilt and they end up in our bed (sound familiar?) It’s an endless cycle! So try to keep your cool when you’re in the room with them; consistent guidance and understanding are key to helping them navigate this challenging phase.

Stay Consistent: Consistency is key when it comes to toddler sleep. Make sure to follow through with your bedtime routine and any strategies you’ve put in place. This helps your toddler understand boundaries, builds their confidence, and gives them a sense of security. By sticking to your plan, you’ll create a predictable environment that supports healthy sleep habits for the whole family.

Navigating toddler sleep can be SO challenging, but with the right strategies in place, you can reclaim your nights. Start sleeping again and have your evenings back so that you can fill your own cup, and ensure both you and your little one get the rest you both NEED! By implementing the tools above, you’ll be well on your way to peaceful nights and happier mornings. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey – reach out for support from your partner, mom friends who have been there, or schedule a call with me to get some one on one support and guidance! I’m just a call away, friend. Sweet dreams!