There are many changes that occur for parents when they have young children. One of these challenging transitions is when toddlers experience the phenomenon of sleep regression. Sleep regression is when a period of several weeks or months occur when toddlers suddenly resist sleep or have difficulty trying to fall asleep.
Sleep regression often coincides with life changes for the toddler, such as starting to walk or mastering language. These events and achievements can cause a period of excitement and dramatization that affects the sleeping cycle. Occuring with all children at some point, but parents can learn the appropriate steps to support their toddler during these times and address the issues of sleep regression.
Getting through sleep regression can be a complex process, though, and understanding sleep regression can help parents work through this transition period with their young child. There are several ways to go about this for dealing with sleep regression and aiding in the child’s return to a healthy sleeping cycle.
Understanding Sleep Cycles
For caregivers, understanding the science behind sleep regression can be the first step in tackling this issue. Becoming familiar with how sleep cycles work plays a crucial role in making sure that a child’s sleep regression does not become a long-term problem, leading to insomnia. As human beings, our bodies are conditioned to follow certain sleep cycles. This applies to all stages of life, including toddlers.
It can be beneficial for caregivers to understand that toddlers need more sleep than adults and that their brains rely on long, sustained sleep cycles. Knowing this detail helps caregivers become more conscious of how much sleep their child may need as they grow and develop.
Establishing a Routine
Consistency is one of the most important parts of parenting a toddler. Creating a routine for them that includes ample time for sleep is a critical part of caring for a young child. A consistent sleep routine helps a child’s body adjust to the idea of going to sleep earlier, which is important for their long-term sleeping pattern. A nighttime routine before bed should also be introduced so that the child gets used to the idea of winding down for sleep.
Part of helping a toddler become accustomed to going to bed is creating a consistency for them in their environment. Parents should make sure their child is in a comfortable and safe environment and that the bedroom temperature is comfortable. Doing this will help ensure that the child’s environment encourages healthy sleeping practices.
Creating a softened lit environment can also assist the child in preparing to sleep. Dimmed lights, soothing music, or certain essential oils can be tools that parents can employ to make the surroundings a calm space. This can also play a role in the child’s sleep and should not be overlooked.
Other Tips to Implement
Here are some other tips that parents and caregivers can follow in order to lessen the effects of sleep regression:
- Discontinue daytime naps
- Limit screen time, especially at night
- Avoid large meals before bed
- Encourage aerobic exercise during the day
- Start a bedtime tradition, such as reading to them before bed
Conclusion
Sleep regression in toddlers can be a formidable challenge. However, by understanding sleep cycles and implementing the right strategies to help improve their sleep environment, your toddler is bound to return to their regular sleeping pattern in a few weeks or months.