Blissed Out BabiesBlissed Out Babies
If you’re a parent or caregiver, you’ve probably heard about the concept of self-soothing as a crucial skill for toddlers to develop in order to sleep through the night.
Many sleep consultants, books, websites and social media influencers promote the idea that once your child can self-soothe then your sleep problems will disappear.
Therefore the pressure on parents to somehow teach their child to not need them at bedtime or through the night is huge, leading parents to choose approaches that wouldn’t usually align with their parenting ethous, such as controller crying, cry-it-out or the Ferber method.
However, I want to dive into this topic a little deeper and explore why self-soothing isn’t the be-all and end-all for ensuring good quality sleep for your little one.
While self-soothing can be helpful, it is not the only factor that determines whether a toddler will sleep well. Many other elements come into play when it comes to creating healthy sleep habits. Let’s take a closer look at what influences toddler sleep and why it’s important to consider a holistic approach.
Every child is unique, and their sleep needs and patterns can vary significantly. Some toddlers are naturally good sleepers, while others may struggle more, regardless of their ability to self-soothe. Understanding your child’s temperament and developmental stage can provide valuable insights into their sleep patterns.
Some toddlers might be more sensitive to changes in routine, environment, or stimuli. Understanding these individual differences can help you create a sleep plan that suits your child’s specific needs.
Consistency is key when it comes to helping toddlers sleep well. Establishing a bedtime routine that is predictable and calming can make a huge difference. This might include activities such as reading a story, taking a warm bath, or singing a lullaby. Routines help signal to your child that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep, creating a sense of security and predictability.
Creating a consistent routine around bedtime helps reinforce the natural sleep-wake cycle and encourages relaxation. Over time, your toddler will begin to associate these activities with sleep, making it easier for them to transition from wakefulness to sleep.
The environment in which your toddler sleeps plays a crucial role in the quality of their sleep. Consider factors such as room temperature, lighting, noise levels, and bedding. A comfortable and quiet sleep environment can significantly improve your child’s ability to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Lighting: Make sure the room is dark enough to encourage the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep.
Noise: Consider using white noise machines or soft music to mask disruptive sounds that could wake your toddler.
Temperature: Keep the room at a comfortable temperature.
Ensuring your toddler gets plenty of physical activity during the day can help them sleep better at night. Activities that engage them physically and mentally can expend energy and promote better sleep. However, try to avoid overly stimulating activities close to bedtime, as they might make it harder for your child to wind down.
Similarly, diet can influence sleep quality. Providing balanced meals with adequate nutrients and avoiding caffeine or sugar close to bedtime can help prevent sleep disruptions. A light snack before bed can also help prevent your toddler from waking up hungry during the night.
Emotional security is fundamental for good sleep. Toddlers who feel safe and loved are more likely to sleep well. Addressing any fears or anxieties they might have and maintaining a strong emotional connection can help reduce nighttime awakenings and improve sleep quality.
Some children benefit from reassurance and physical closeness before bedtime. A comforting presence can help your toddler feel secure and ready for sleep.
Lastly, remember that flexibility and patience are key. Sleep challenges can ebb and flow, especially during periods of growth, teething, or developmental leaps. It’s important to be adaptable and respond to your child’s changing needs.
Sleep regression is a common occurrence during certain developmental stages. Being prepared for these periods and having strategies in place can help you navigate them with confidence.
Self-soothing is just one piece of the toddler sleep puzzle. By considering a variety of factors—routines, environment, activity levels, emotional well-being, and more—you can create a comprehensive sleep plan that supports your child’s overall health and well-being.
Parenting is a journey filled with ups and downs, and no one-size-fits-all solution exists for toddler sleep. Trust your instincts, be patient, and know that you’re doing an amazing job by exploring different ways to help your little one rest peacefully.
If you would like some more tips on how to support your child to sleep through the night, my FREE guide has 7 easy to follow tips for you to try, download it below.
If you’re tired and had enough of googling sleep and making it up as you go along, let’s chat about how I can help in a free 15m consultation.
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Yes! You can check out my free sleep resources here.