Sometimes, parents feel like their toddler believes that sleep is a sworn enemy. They see their toddlers fight sleep with such determination that bedtime feels like a battleground. While you’re keen to drift off to sleep yourself, your toddler is doing everything they can to stay awake.
Here’s the thing about toddlers and sleeping: getting your toddler to sleep isn’t only about setting a bedtime routine. They need connection and comfort to understand that it’s safe to rest at the end of a day. For this, parents need access to the tools that help convey this message, and one of the best ways to do this is through soothing comfort toys from well-known brands like US Riff Raff Baby.
Let’s see what thoughtfully designed sleep toys can do to help toddlers move from activity to sleep.
Why Toddlers Fight Sleep (So Vehemently)
You may have noticed that your toddler keeps rubbing their eyes, but doesn’t say yes when you ask them if they are tired and want to sleep. You can see your child is exhausted, but can’t do anything about it because your toddler won’t cooperate.
Do you know why this happens? It’s because toddlers are learning how to be independent, and saying no to sleep and various other things is one way of showing or proving that they can assert themselves. However, this stubbornness is usually born out of overstimulation.
So, What’s Really Going on at Bedtime?
Right before bedtime, your toddler’s brain is buzzing with new information. They are learning new words and testing their boundaries. That’s why they find it challenging to sleep because they don’t know how to switch off (for rest).
How Their Surroundings Affect Sleep
When a toddler’s sleeping space or routine changes in any way, it can lead to sleep disruption. Adding a new bed or experiencing something different like starting daycare can affect their sleep quality.
Once you understand why your toddler might be resisting sleep, you can take steps to encourage them to get a good night’s rest. Sleep toys are an excellent solution for calming them down and helping them transition from playtime to the dream world.
Turn Bedtime Into a Predictable Ritual
Toddlers love routine! Turning bedtime into a familiar, wonderfully natural routine tells their little minds and bodies that it’s time to sleep.
Use Simple Cues
A warm bath before bed is a proven solution that has helped parents for years, so consider starting with that. Next, dim the lights and play soft music while your toddler cuddles with their favourite soft toy. Read children’s stories (preferably the same ones every day) and allow them to sleep listening to the rhythm of your voice.
Things to Avoid Before Lights Out
A few things to avoid before bedtime include sugary snacks or drinks, screens, overstimulation from games, and high-energy play, among other things. You need not be strict or induce fear in any form (that’s a no, always); you just need to be steady and predictable.
Help Your Toddler Learn to Settle on Their Own
All parents want their children to sleep peacefully on their own. One day, your toddler will grow up and go to sleep on their own without throwing any tantrums, and you can help them learn to do that. Teach your toddler how to settle into a suitable mental and physical position for sleep.
Comfort Your Child
Comforting your child when they need it is essential. A soft ‘shhh’ works wonders. But avoid rushing to their side the moment they stir a little. With time, your toddler will learn that you’re around if they need you. Most importantly, it’ll teach them to fall back asleep on their own, comforted by the knowledge that you’re nearby.
Learn When to Help
When your toddler seems upset, not just restless, you may need to reassure them. You’ll gradually understand the difference between cries that say “I need you” and sounds that indicate that they’ll likely fall back asleep on their own.
Let the Room Whisper, “It’s Time to Sleep”
The right environment makes sleep attractive to toddlers. It helps them see that sleep is an invitation to relax, rather than an order to comply.
Lights and Sounds to Calm the Mind
Dim lighting and soft sounds, along with lullabies, make it easy for toddlers to drift off to sleep. Breathable bedding and sleep toys enhance the experience.
Daytime Habits That Promote Sleep
Toddlers who don’t get enough outdoor playtime and fresh air find it challenging to fall asleep at night. If they nap too late in the day or are fussy during mealtimes, parents typically encounter difficulties during bedtime.
Closing Thoughts
Helping your toddler fall asleep may not be entirely simple, and your toddler will test your patience on some nights. However, with a predictable bedtime schedule, nutritious meals, a good daytime routine, and a suitable sleep toy, you can help y
