Tips to Overcome the Challenge of Putting Your Toddler to Sleep
by Jose Malave I am an author.It’s indisputable that making kids go to bed is one of the biggest
challenges faced by parents. At the same time, there’s also no denying that it
is one of the most important things that needs to be done for kids, since lack
of quality sleep can make it difficult for them to control their emotions, not
to mention, they may become irritable and cranky. This might eventually lead to
behavioral problems and trouble concentrating while learning.
According to reputable toddler care East Hanover, NJ providers, toddlers need about 12-13 hours of sleep
every day, which is usually 10-12 hours at night and a nap of one or two hours
during the daytime. A consistent bedtime routine is the key to helping toddlers
prepare for sleep. If you haven’t established a bedtime routine when your child
was a baby, no worries, you can start one now. Following a set pattern every
night helps kids feel more relaxed and they are able to fall asleep more
easily, which can be attributed to the predictability of knowing what is in
store for them which makes them feel safe and secure.
The key to helping your little one sleep soundly is by creating a
soothing bedtime routine, and for that you are required to know the basics of a
good bedtime routine, which are as follows:
Fix regular bed timings- Kids look up to their parents and follow in their
footsteps as they grow up. Developing a bedtime routine for your kids largely
depends on making sleep a priority on the part of the entire family. Setting
regular go-to-bed and wake-up times for the entire family and following them
will automatically make your kid follow the same. These timings must even be
followed on the weekends, even if you’re not at home. In a new surrounding, the
familiarity in terms of the fixed bed timings will make it easy for him to
settle down. Make sure your child stays on schedule and you stick with your
daily routine, which will stand both you and your child in good stead.
Address the sleep troubles- Look out for signs including trouble falling asleep,
snoring, waking up in the middle of the night, difficulty breathing, etc.
during sleep- these are signs that your kid is having sleep struggles. If you
see any of these signs, or your kid being cranky, sleepy or feeling exhausted
during daytime (due to lack of sleep), it’s advised to seek medical help.
Brush your toddler’s teeth- You might be tempted to skip this part because of a
battle that the activity always appears to turn into, but nighttime brushing is
extremely important to prevent dental issues and teach kids to look after their
teeth properly (bacteria can build up at night and attack those petite pearly whites).
Over time, this activity will become synonymous with the fact that it’s time to
sleep.
Offer a bedtime snack- It's been a while since dinner — and it's a long way
to breakfast, and a hunger striking in the midnight can disturb the kid’s
sleep. So give your toddler a little bite, such as whole-grain cereal with milk or a piece of fruit before bedtime to tide
him through the night. Also, avoid large meals before getting kids to bed.
Give your toddler a bath- There's nothing like warm water to calm a body down,
and it also applies for a toddler. A warm bath will be soothing for your child.
However, if your kids don’t enjoy baths, just washing their face and hands will
also do.
Read a bedtime story- Reading books together can be quality time spent
together. Cuddle up together in the same spot every night (whatever spot is comfortable),
and read whatever his favorite happens to be at the moment. Do not go for
stories that involve monsters. Aside from this, you can also play his favorite
lullaby, or listen to some songs, snuggle together, and sing or hum.
Last thing- Goodnight kisses and hugs- After you’re done with your story or song, tuck them
into bed with his
special stuffed animal and turn on the night-light, then plant a kiss and give a
hug, and then say good night. This way, you are letting your kids know that
it’s time for them to sleep tight.
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Created on Sep 21st 2020 08:49. Viewed 352 times.