Sleep

Many toddlers continue with a daytime sleep until they are three to four years old. Others have outgrown it by 18 months. Sometimes, even if your toddler doesn’t sleep, giving them a rest time can give you both a quiet, peaceful time during the day.

Your toddler may wake at night needing your care and comfort when they are unwell or teething, but should soon settle back to normal when feeling better.

Separation anxiety is common around 18 months of age. This may make them difficult to settle and more clingy. A night light and a calm, soothing approach may help them settle.

It is common for toddlers to become attached to objects in bed (eg teddy, blanket). These can help them to feel safe, calm and relaxed for sleep. Ensure the object is safe, not too small or with pieces that can be pulled off and cause choking, and not so large that it may smother or strangle them.

Regular bedtime routines (eg bath, story, quiet cuddle, bed) may help your child settle to sleep at night. If your toddler wakes in the night, try not to rush to settle them straight away. They may settle back to sleep.

When you move your toddler into their own bed, you may find they start coming out of the bedroom. Children are not being naughty when they wake at night. If your toddler’s waking is becoming a problem for you, they may need some help to learn about going to sleep.

You may want to discuss helpful ideas about sleep with Plunket staff. You may also find books in your library to help with their settling.