Toddler sleep problems

Babies generally have erratic sleep patterns, but it’s also common for toddlers to struggle sleeping. You may have a little one who finds it hard to get to sleep, or maybe wakes in the night. But there are things you can do to help – also known as toddler sleep training.

• Create a simple and familiar routine for bedtime - for example, feed, bath then bed
• Give your child time to settle – Don't go back into the room straightaway if your child doesn’t want to lie down. However don't leave little ones so long they become distressed
• Some toddlers settle better if it’s quiet in the evenings, while others prefer natural house noises, as it's reassuring to know you're nearby
• Make sure your child winds down before bed
• If your toddler keeps getting out of bed at night, you need to be firm, taking them back again. This may take time, but eventually your child will understand

• Remember, everyone's sleep patterns vary – some people need eight hours or more, while others can manage on just five or six
• If you've always rocked, stroked or sung your child to sleep in bed, your little one may find it difficult to get back to sleep without assistance upon waking in the night
• When you go in to comfort your child, keep the lights low and speak quietly

• Use thick blinds or curtains to make your child’s room darker and to block out the morning light
  
• Provide safe toys for your child to play with in the mornings, until the rest of the family is awake
• If your child's a natural early riser, you may just have to be patient
• Once children start nursery or school, they tend to sleep for longer