Parenting Tips for Your 29-30 Month Old Toddler

Getting enough sleep is important for toddlers’ health. But it is normal for toddlers to have ups and downs in their sleeping patterns. Some weeks toddlers will fall asleep easily and sleep through the night. During other weeks toddlers may resist falling asleep, or will wake several times throughout the night.

Trouble sleeping can happen when toddlers are going through changes. This can be developmental change, like physical or mental growth. It can also be changes that are happening in their life. New brothers or sisters, a new house, or new child care can all disrupt toddlers’ sleeping patterns.

Helping your toddler relax before bedtime helps him learn how to calm himself. Going to bed relaxed can help toddlers fall asleep faster and sleep better. Here are some tips for helping toddlers when they are having problems going to sleep:

• Create a bedtime routine: tooth brushing, toileting, pajamas, and reading books.

• Avoid conflicts close to bedtime.

• Use the bedtime routine to transition your toddler from play to relaxing. Have your child stop playing and start the routine before your toddler’s bedtime.

• Read, tell stories, or sit quietly together each night right before laying your toddler down to sleep.

• If your toddler does not fall asleep right away, let him look at a book or play quietly in bed until he gets sleepy.