What is Toddler Sleep Training? Tips For Better Bedtimes

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, toddlers need 11-14 hours of sleep every day. But if you constantly struggle to put kids to bed every night, you are not alone.

As a working mum of a toddler, I know what you are going through.

Some people insist strict routines or cutting naps are the answer. But what if the secret isn’t about making toddlers sleep… but letting them own their sleep? Yes! That’s what proper sleep training for toddlers does. It helps them sleep and stay asleep on their own.

Check out the simple toddler sleep training methods and techniques to ease your parenting challenges.

Why Is It Important to Train Your Toddler for Sleep?

1. Enhance Brain Development

During sleep, the brain organizes the day’s experiences and consolidates memories. Toddlers with consistent sleep routines demonstrate better problem-solving skills and language development.

2. Happy Moods and Fewer Meltdowns

Well-rested sleep means kids won’t demolish the entire world if they don’t get their favorite candy (well, maybe they would, but the reason won’t be the bad mood for sure).

Anyway! It’s a fact that tired toddlers become more stubborn because they get easily overwhelmed. So, a proper night’s sleep keeps their emotions balanced.

3. Body Clock Training

A consistent 15-month-old bedtime schedule teaches toddlers their internal “body clock” to know when to sleep and wake. This makes falling asleep easier and improves sleep quality over time.

How to Sleep Train Your Toddler? 4 Effective Tips for Toddler Bedtime Routine

Utilize these tips to minimize the toddler’s bedtime struggles for a well-rested sleep.

1. Keep the Bedroom Cool, Dark, and Comfortable

When designing a bedroom for toddlers, keep it cozy and dreamy. Use blackout curtains if needed.

Generally, kids love to sleep by holding their favorite stuffied or cuddly toys. You can offer them comfort objects to promote relaxation. Personally, I love to spend half an hour singing some lullabies to my son so he sleeps better.

2. Try Fading Technique

It is an effective toddler sleep training method that works well for toddlers who struggle with separation anxiety or resist sudden changes.

Gradually reduces your presence at bedtime. Sit or lie next to your toddler’s bed until they fall asleep. Over 1–2 weeks, move farther away and sit on a nearby chair. Reduce the minutes you stay in the room each night, every day. It will train your kid to sleep without you.

When you note that they are trying to sleep on their own, you must appreciate them the next morning so they feel assured.

3. Consistent Routine Sequence Every Night

Sleep training for 3-year-old toddlers starts by teaching them a simple nighttime routine. It can include bathing, wearing night suits or pajamas, brushing teeth, storytime, and lullaby.

Ensure that you remove maximum resistance and make the routine effortlessly simple. Keep activities low-energy and screen-free for 1–2 hours before bed.

4. Let Them Cry for a While

It may sound counterintuitive, but it surely works. If you see your kid throwing tantrums and crying much louder than normal because you are leaving him in bed, let him cry. It may come as the least favorite toddler sleep training tactic, but it is beneficial. Say some words of affirmation to your son, but avoid over-soothing them.

It might not be the favorite method of sleep training, but this approach is beneficial in building long-term habits.

Sample Toddler Sleep Schedule Chart

Taking care of baby’s and toddler’s sleep can be really exhausting for moms. Sometimes, you might feel guilty for not handling everything perfectly. But let me tell you that making a simple sleep schedule for your toddler will surely put some burden off your shoulders.

Toddlers Sleep Schedule With 2 Naps

(Age 12–18 Months)

One-Nap Toddler Sleep Schedule

(Age 18 Months–3 Years)