What You Need to Know About Sleep Training Methods for Toddlers

What You Need to Know About Sleep Training Methods for Toddlers

Hey mama, I know you are exhausted and feel like there is no hope for getting your little one to sleep through the night or even have a decent nap. I am here to tell you that there is a light at the end of the tunnel, you can get through this, we all have, and I will be here to guide you! I went through sleep exhaustion myself when my son was 4 months old, and by 6 months I sleep trained him because none of us could continue with little to no sleep. It simply isn’t healthy. Here is what you need to know about sleep training methods for toddlers.

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Sleep Regression Ages

Sleep regressions are when your sweet sleeping child suddenly stops sleeping well and experiences frequent wake ups with increased fussiness. During these regressions, they may even start to fight nap time and bedtime. The most common sleep regression ages occur at 4 months, 6 months, 8 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 2 years of age and can last anywhere between 2 to 6 weeks. It is believed sleep regressions accompany your child reaching a significant developmental milestone such as learning to crawl or walk.

Sleep Training Methods

Achieving consistent and restful sleep for toddlers is a common challenge faced by many parents. Here are some of the most effective sleep training methods that can help your toddler sleep better:

1. Graduated Extinction (Ferber Method)

This method involves putting your child to bed when they are drowsy but still awake. If the toddler cries, you wait for progressively longer periods of time before you check on them. The goal is for them to learn to self-soothe and fall asleep on their own.

2. Chair Method

Start by sitting in a chair next to your toddler’s crib. Each night, move the chair farther away from the crib until you’re out of the room. This gradual change can help your toddler get used to falling asleep without your presence in the room.

3. Pick-Up, Put-Down Method

If your toddler cries, you pick them up and comfort them until they calm down. Once they’re calm, put them back in the crib while still awake. Repeat this until your child falls asleep without needing to be held.

4. Camping Out Method

Set up a cot or a bed for yourself in your child’s room. Every few nights, move the bed farther from your toddler’s crib until you’re out of the room completely. This method can be comforting to toddlers who may feel anxious when left alone.

Bedtime Routine

Establish a consistent bedtime routine that might include a bath, brushing teeth, bedtime stories, and cuddles. This helps signal to your toddler that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.

Positive Reinforcement

Praise your toddler or provide small rewards for nights when they successfully stay in bed and fall asleep without fuss. This can encourage positive associations with bedtime and sleeping through the night.

Sleep Schedules

Maintain regular sleep and wake times for your toddler, even on weekends. A consistent sleep schedule helps regulate your child’s internal clock and improves their overall sleep quality.

Conclusion

Sleep regressions come hand in hand with a baby, and boy did they catch me off guard! By choosing a method that suits your family’s needs and being consistent with it, you can help establish healthy sleep habits for your baby or toddler, and finally get some shut eye. Always be consistent and keep a fresh pot(s) of coffee on hand as it may take some children longer than others to adjust.