How much sleep does your toddler really need?
Every child is different, but there are certain guidelines that need to be followed. We asked author and childcare expert, Meg Faure, for her advice.
Experts agree that toddlers need between 10 and 12 hours sleep at night, along with a two-hour-long midday nap. That said, every child is different and some may need a little more (or less) sleep than others.
“Although toddlers should be able to sleep through the night, more than 50% do still wake up during the night and there are many reasons for this – ranging from emotional causes, such as separation anxiety and waking from nightmares, to habit,” explains Faure.
“It may be common, but it’s certainly something that parents can manage and improve on.”
What if my toddler won’t sleep?
It may seem contradictory, but an overtired tot may refuse sleep. Like adults, some children may need more – or less – sleep than others, so it’s important that you look out for signs that your little one may not be getting enough sleep: Does your toddler:
• Seem irritable throughout the day?
• Need to be woken up in the mornings?
• Wake up frequently throughout the night?
• Often fall asleep before their usual bedtime?
• Often fall asleep in the car?
If your toddler displays any one of the above-mentioned signs, they may need more sleep – but don’t worry too much about your little one becoming sleep deprived.
If your child doesn’t get enough sleep one night, it’s likely that they will catch up the following evening. Establishing a good bedtime routine may be tough at first, but it’s one way to ensure that your toddler gets the recommended 10 to 12 hours of sleep every night.
How to encourage a good night’s sleep
Faure recommends limiting daytime naps to one hour, and making sure that these happen at a regular time every day – with no sleep after 2pm. “A good bedtime routine is essential,” she says.
“Try reading your tot a story after bath time, then straight into bed – and try not to leave the room for at least one hour before bedtime.” And set some bedtime boundaries – these include where your toddler sleeps, how many books you read before bedtime and what snacks or drinks are available before bedtime.
“Get into a routine, and allow for negotiations to happen within these predetermined boundaries,” advises Faure. It’s vital that your toddler clearly understand what sleep boundaries are in place.
IMAGE CREDIT: shutterstock.com
