Toddler Sleeping Problems: Tips And Advice

Toddler Sleeping Problems: Tips And Advice
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Are you having trouble getting your toddler to sleep? The good news is you're not alone. In fact, a recent survey reveals that one in six parents said they'd lost even more sleep through their toddler's night-time habits than they did when they were a baby.

The biggest hurdle for many parents struggling with a toddler who is reluctant to go to bed - or to stay there - is the transfer from a cot to a normal bed, which usually occurs between the age of 18 months and three.

"The transition from a cot is a positive stage in your child's life, as it's a step towards them becoming more independent," says Mandy Gurney, child sleep expert and founder of the Millpond Children's Sleep Clinic. "However, unsurprisingly, it can be more difficult for some children than others.

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"First borns, for example, can be more attached to their cot, while subsequent children tend to be keen to emulate a big brother or sister and find the move easier."

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You can find plenty of special toddler beds on the market, like the HelloHome range from Worlds Apart, which lets your child drift off inside a princess carriage, a race car or a jeep.

"Creating a bedroom environment that is friendly and familiar can overcome sleep difficulties that often occur at this age, as it will help your little one feel secure and snug," says Mandy. Check out these great ideas for creative ways to transform your child's bedroom, even on a budget.

Other ways to ease the transition to a bed and avoid waking through the night can be incorporated into a consistent evening routine.

A warm bath and a bedtime story set a relaxing mood. Keeping the conversation volume low and dimming the lights (using a night-light if your toddler shows signs of having fear of the dark), will also get your toddler prepared off peacefully.

The NHS has some suggestions if, despite following a calming routine, your child is still frequently waking/getting up through the night. These won't work for everyone, but if you're at the end of your tether when nothing else has worked, these tips could help.

If your child starts crying, try not to go to them straight away. Start off by leaving it five or 10 minutes, then gradually increase the time until, with any luck, your toddler 'trains' herself to go back to sleep

Does your toddler have a sibling, older or younger, who they could share a room with? As long your other child is happy with this arrangement, having a brother or sister near could help your toddler sleep through the night.

Scheduled waking. This is a sneaky one. If your child is waking up at the same time every night, try waking him between 60 and 15 minutes before, then getting him back to sleep.

Get more tips and advice from Mandy with the Worlds Apart sleep guide.

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