Every parent knows the struggle—help your toddler sleep better and suddenly your whole household feels calmer, happier and far less exhausted. But getting there can feel like a nightly mission, filled with delays, cries and “just one more story.” The good news? A few small changes to your routine can make a big difference. From setting the right mood to creating comfort cues, better sleep is possible.
Developmentally, there is a big difference between a 15-month-old, a two-year-old and a 36-month-old, so there is a big difference in how you should approach sleep training in the respective years. Healthy toddlers should not be waking anymore at night, especially to feed, but this is easier said than done. We have consciously used the controversial words “sleep training” here because sleep becomes more of a discipline with toddlers.
It is not just about creating the foundation for sleep anymore, but more about how to get your child to sleep in their own bed and give them the confidence to sleep on their own. This takes training, and sleep training toddlers take commitment, consistency and follow through. Toddlers will no longer just accept change but will protest change.
“Knowing how to make a kid take a nap is a different challenge, yet just as important as night-time sleep, and most toddlers still need to nap.”
Understanding your toddler
When it comes to toddlers, there are three concepts to always remember as a parent – in general and with regards to sleep.
1. Toddlers cannot tell time. Imagine a whole day without knowing what time it is? Even though they cannot read time, it is amazing how they can create and desire to create order through repeated instructions and tasks. This is why routine and schedule are important, as it helps to give them a concept of time. They know they bath, put pyjamas on, read two stories and then it is time to sleep.
2. Understand and accept the emotional ups and downs. One minute your toddler is happy and the next they are screaming! Most emotions they experience are new and they’re just getting used to dealing with them. Adults don’t always know how to react appropriately to emotions, so you shouldn’t expect your two-year-old to. Parents should teach them how to react, but this takes time and consistency. Sleep training an 18-month-old will involve change and they’re allowed to be angry about the change, but they should also learn how to deal with the change.
3. Toddler years are synonymous with autonomy. They want to do things on their own – independently walking, talking and eating – so sleeping on their own is an extension of their personality.
Common toddler sleep issues
Sleep training on a basic level involves removing sleep associations. A pillow, comfortable mattress or even your partner can be sleep associations – that one thing or person you cannot go to sleep without. Positive sleep associations are things that we can use independently (pillow, blankey, taglet, teddy) whereas negative sleep associations (partner, mom/dad, bottles, breast) requires external intervention. The most common sleep associations with toddlers are sucking (bottle, breast or dummy) or a parent having to lie next to toddler in order for them to fall asleep.
When the toddler then wakes at night (which they will) they will require the same thing to fall asleep again. With toddlers, sleep association has been present a lot longer than with babies and thus involves more consistency and time. Sleep training a two-year-old or three-year-old also involves confidence. They need to have the confidence to sleep on their own and as parents we need to give them this assurance.
Bed or cot?
Toddlerhood also brings other challenges such as the arrival of a sibling, which can prompt parents to want to move their toddler to a bed. When moving your toddler to a bed the only concern should be safety. Most 18-month-olds are too young and often can’t handle the change and being able to roam around their room or the house while parents are sleeping is not safe. On the other hand, an 18-month-old that continues to try and climb out of his cot is also not safe and should then rather be moved to a big bed. The room should then be seen as the cot and made safe as such.
The ideal time to move a toddler would be between 30 and 36 months. Most toddlers are then able to understand and be excited about the concept of staying in their bed, as well as the consequences of getting out. When sleep training a 15-month-old, keep them in their cot even if a new baby is on the way. If they’re already trying to climb out, restrict their movement with a sleeping bag or by removing the pillows and blankets they use as leverage.
Too-late bedtime
Parents often complain that they need to make bedtime later with older toddlers saying “my two-year-old won’t go to sleep too early”. Up until the age of five years, children still require 11 to 12 hours of sleep, so don’t be tempted to move the bedtime later too soon.
CHECK OUT: How to get your toddler to sleep better
Nap time
Knowing how to make a kid take a nap is a different challenge, yet just as important as night-time sleep, and most toddlers still need to nap. During toddler years there are two nap transitions.
- The first is moving to one nap. This transition takes place between 12 and 16 months. One of the naps becomes shorter and shorter and then either struggles to happen or just does not happen. At that stage, it is time to start gradually moving to one nap a day.
- The second transition is moving to no nap. Most toddlers still need to nap, but some do start skipping the naps around 30 months, but children usually only start skipping naps after toddlerhood (between three and four).
Natural sleep remedies for toddlers
Magnesium in the form of bath salts or Epson salts is a natural anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant. It helps with sleep and with the absorption of calcium. As toddlers grow, they can become picky and parents can be tempted to give them things they like eating. Make sure to monitor their sugar and caffeine intake and give them a variety of healthy snacks throughout the day, as toddlers on the move rarely have a lot of time to eat.
Toddlers change and grow all the time. This should not be seen as a challenge but should be celebrated. All the cognitive, emotional and social development is a permanent change, not a phase, and it is important to remain consistent throughout this change to create confidence and security.
ALSO READ: Sleep Training 101
BabyYumYum FAQ’s: Toddler Sleep
How much sleep does a toddler need each day?
Toddlers generally need between 11 to 14 hours of total sleep in a 24-hour period, including one daytime nap.
Why is my toddler waking up during the night?
Night wakings are common and can be caused by teething, hunger, overstimulation, or separation anxiety. A consistent bedtime routine can help.
Should toddlers still be having a nap?
Yes, most toddlers benefit from one nap a day, usually lasting 1–2 hours, until around age 3 or 4.
How can I help my toddler settle at bedtime?
Establish a calming bedtime routine with activities like a warm bath, quiet story time and dim lighting. Avoid screens and sugary snacks before bed.
Is co-sleeping a good idea for toddlers?
This is a personal choice. Some families find it helpful, while others prefer separate sleep spaces. Consistency and safety are key, whichever method you choose.
What causes bedtime resistance or tantrums?
Overtiredness, lack of routine, or needing more wind-down time can lead to resistance. Keeping bedtime consistent each night can reduce struggles.
Should I use a night light in my toddler’s room?
Yes, a soft, dim night light can be comforting, especially if your toddler is going through a phase of being afraid of the dark.
When should I move my toddler from a cot to a bed?
Most toddlers transition between 18 months and 3 years. Signs include climbing out of the cot or showing interest in a “big kid” bed.
What if my toddler wakes up too early?
Try adjusting bedtime slightly later or make sure the room is dark and quiet. Early waking can also be linked to overtiredness or hunger.
Can sleep training help with toddler sleep issues?
Yes, gentle sleep training methods can support better sleep. Choose an approach that suits your child’s temperament and your parenting style.
Is it normal for toddler sleep patterns to change?
Yes, sleep regressions, growth spurts, illness, or changes in routine can all temporarily affect your toddler’s sleep habits.
When should I speak to a doctor about toddler sleep problems?
If your toddler consistently struggles to fall asleep, stay asleep, or shows signs of sleep disorders like loud snoring or breathing pauses, consult your GP or paediatrician.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for general guidance only and should not replace medical advice. If you have concerns about your toddler’s sleep or health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
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