Life
I would argue that getting a toddler to sleep can be more challenging than it is with an infant. While infants will often sleep if you're holding them or if you've just fed them, toddlers usually want a specific song, story, snack, and stuffed animal before they'll even consider getting some shut-eye. If you have struggled at all to get your toddler to sleep, you probably have received advice concerning old wives' tales that have been around for ages. There are some old wives' tales about getting toddlers to sleep that work, some that don't work at all, and others that really just depend on your toddler.
These 10 tips are basically tried and true home remedies for toddler sleep issues that you can take to the bank. Obviously, every child is different, but having these tricks up your sleeve when your toddler is fighting sleep can really help to ensure that both you and your toddler get the best rest possible. As I'm sure you're delightfully aware — when your toddler doesn't sleep, you don't sleep either. So, try one of these 10 old wives' tales about getting toddlers to sleep that work the next time you're ready to seriously snooze.
6
Having A Routine
You've undoubtedly heard this advice more than you would like to admit, but for toddlers resisting sleep, a routine is crucial. Stone explains that there is more behind a bedtime routine than meets the eye. "Although it may seem counter-intuitive, having a good schedule and routine helps toddlers feel like they have more control, because they know what is coming next," Stone tells Romper. "There are no surprises." This aspect of control helps a toddler feel secure and understand that sleep is necessary.
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Rocking
Although nobody really wants to be stuck rocking their elementary school-aged child to sleep every night (because they're heavy!) some parents swear that their toddlers are still comforted by rocking the way that infants are. This is especially true if your toddler was rocked to sleep a lot as a baby, according to Baby Center. I know my youngest son needed to be rocked through age 2, so I can certainly attest to the fact that this did work for my toddler.
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Fresh Air & Exercise
When my kids play outside all day (or even for just an hour or two), I notice a significant difference in how well they sleep. Aha! Parenting reported that getting enough outdoor exercise and play time is essential for helping toddlers get to sleep. Their bodies are likely worn out, and their minds have been hard at work as well and in need of a re-charge, so sleep may come more easily.
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Using A Nightlight
Experts at the Baby Sleep Site recommend using a nightlight to help your toddler sleep, especially if they show concern over being left alone in the dark at night. While a light with a blue hue may disturb their sleep, soft yellow or dim red nightlights can comfort a toddler and provide them with reassurance if they awake during the middle of the night.
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Cuddling Stuffed Animals
Snuggling up with a teddy bear or hugging a lovey while a toddler is falling asleep can help them feel safe and secure. If your toddler is feeling anxious about being alone at night, try allowing your toddler to select a favorite stuffed animal to keep them company at nighttime, and let them know that they'll be there with them if they get scared.
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