When Your Child Initiates a Sleep Protest
Just when you believe you’ve mastered the intricacies of bedtime routines and sleep habits, your little one throws you a curveball and begins a sleep protest. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed and think, “Are you serious right now?” But rest assured, we’re here to provide assistance.
Are you a co-sleeping family? The topic of co-sleeping can be quite divisive, with various opinions on its benefits and drawbacks. If co-sleeping is working seamlessly for your family, there’s no need to rush into changing it. However, if your child is keeping you awake at night or has started resisting sleep, it may be time to transition your little night owl to a toddler bed.
Do you have a consistent bedtime? Children as young as 19 months typically require around 12 hours of sleep each night. Establishing a reliable bedtime can help create a routine that encourages better sleep for your child and might even help manage the time they choose to wake the rest of the household. Aim to start your nightly routine at the same time each evening, incorporating familiar activities such as putting on pajamas, brushing teeth, and reading a story—these rituals can help signal it’s time to wind down.
Is your child experiencing a fear of the dark? It’s common for kids around this age to develop anxieties about darkness. Consider exploring under the bed or in the closet together while the lights are on to illustrate that these spaces are safe. Discussing their fears openly can also help alleviate their bedtime anxieties. If these strategies fall short, you might try using Monster Spray, a nightlight, or reading one extra story as a comforting measure.
Tip: Just like many aspects of motherhood, helping your child adjust to new routines will require considerable patience and the willingness to repeat the process as needed. When your child is pushing back against bedtime, remember that all children eventually learn to sleep independently—and so will you!
For more insights on topics like sleep routines and parenting, explore our other posts, including our guide on home insemination kits at MakeAMom and the expert advice available on home insemination at Healthline.
In summary, remember that establishing a bedtime routine, addressing fears, and being patient can go a long way in easing your child’s sleep challenges. It’s all part of the journey in parenting a toddler.
Keyphrase: Toddler sleep tips
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