Toddler Sleep Training

There are a number of differents methods of sleep training, from a very gradual approach to an in-at-the-deep-end approach. No doubt you can feel the importance of sleep, and you probably feel, right now, that you haven't had enough!

Your tiredness may influence your decision in which method you choose along with how much time you have, what feels right, what you are prepared to do and how much support you have.

Here we have a selection of sleep methods plus top sleep training tips from other parents. We've all been there and you could hit gold by having the help from another parent.

Have a tip to share? Share your top sleep training tips here and help other parents along the way!

The methods we explain here are:
- no cry sleep solution
- a no-cry sleep solution: recommended reading
- controlled crying - an introduction
- a gentle controlled crying plan
- an alternative: co-sleeping

Associated with sleep training we have:
- how black out curtains can ease the problem
- plus handling temper tantrums at bedtime

How you teach your child to sleep is a very personal matter and can be hotly debated when parents get together. Take your time to choose which method you want to use so that you feel confident and comfortable in making progress with your sleep issues.

Every child is unique and your own parenting technique is unique to that child - what worked for one child may not work for another. And what worked for your friend or sister may not work for you or you may not agree the method. Consider each sleep training method with your partner and decide together which one to use. Having support in the sleep training makes it much easier for everyone - you, your partner and your child.

Remember to consult your medical professional before changing your child's sleep patterns as there may be a medical reason why your child is not sleeping well.

Before you start any sleep training programme it can be helpful to be fully aware of what your child's sleep pattern is to start off with. Take the time to go through the following questions:

1. When does your child normally go to bed?
Your toddler needs 12-14 hours sleep a day so if he needs 12 hours sleep during the night, then he needs to be going to sleep at around 7pm and waking up at around 7am.

2. Does your child follow a consistent bedtime routine?
If not, see our bedtime routine example of how to plan a structured and consistent routine. Again, it's important to plan the routine with your partner so that you are working together to help you child know what to expect as he gets ready for his sleep.

3. How does your child go to sleep? With you? On his own? With a teddy?
If he goes to sleep with you he will, at some point, need to learn to have a new sleep association so that he can settle himself during the night, without waking you up. Being able to settle himself at night might come naturally as he gets older. However, if the lack of sleep is an ongoing problem then you may feel the need to use one of the controlled crying methods so that he learns to go to sleep without you.

4. Does your child have naps during the day?
Children who have too many naps will find it hard to sleep at night time. Children who have too little sleep during the day time will also find it hard to go to sleep at night time as they will be over-tired. See toddler sleep to find out how much sleep your toddler is likely to need. Remember to bear in mind that every child is different and you'll need to also look at your child's own behaviours and patterns to gage what is right for him.

Try making a sleep diary for at least one week before starting a new sleep pattern so that you have a clear idea of what is happening and what the problem is. Continue keeping a diary throughout any sleep training period so that you can monitor the changes and spot any problems.

When you decide to change your toddler's sleep be sure that you spend more quality time with him during the day. Any change in his sleep patterns is likely to be upsetting to him so give him attention at a time when sleep is not an issue. He needs to know that if he isn't getting your attention at sleep time or in the middle of the night, he IS getting your attention at other times.

Learning to go to sleep will often involve your child learning new sleep associations and the first association needs to be a structured bedtime routine. It needs to be fun, yet relaxed and you need to give your time to your child. Days are generally busy so try making bed time relaxed and something that you child will look forward to.

It can help if sleep time can be associated with a good time. A relaxed and happy bedtime routine, a lovely toddler bed and toddler bedding really can make a difference when your child is settling into a new phase.

Good luck with your sleep training changes and hopefully you'll all get a good night's sleep soon.