Why Is My Toddler or Preschooler Suddenly Not Sleeping Well?

Why Is My Toddler or Preschooler Suddenly Not Sleeping Well?
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As a parent, it’s not uncommon to find yourself asking, “What happened to my great sleeper?” Toddlers and preschoolers who once slept soundly through the night may begin to experience sleep disruptions.

But why?

The reality is that as your child grows and develops, their sleep habits can change—sometimes dramatically. Let’s explore some common issues that could derail your toddler or preschooler’s sleep and offer solutions to get them back on track.

Why Is My Toddler or Preschooler Struggling to Sleep?
Toddlerhood is an exciting yet challenging phase for both children and their parents. Research published in Sleep Medicine Reviews highlights that toddlers often delay bedtime, seek more attention, and wake up during the night as they assert their growing independence. These behaviours are normal and closely tied to the developmental changes happening at this age【4†source】.

Here are some common factors that may be affecting your toddler’s sleep:

1. Developmental Milestones: As toddlers and preschoolers grow, they experience major developmental changes, particularly around language and cognitive abilities. These milestones, though exciting, can temporarily disrupt sleep patterns. If your child is learning to speak or mastering new skills, they may have a harder time settling down for sleep.
2. Attention-Seeking Behaviour: Children in this age group may crave extra attention, especially if there have been recent changes at home, like starting daycare or welcoming a new sibling. This can lead to bedtime resistance and frequent night wakings as your child seeks comfort or company.
3. Increased Independence: Toddlers and preschoolers love to test boundaries! As they gain more independence, they may resist bedtime or nighttime routines. This can manifest in tantrums, defiant behaviour, or even waking up multiple times at night.
4. Transitioning to a Bed: Moving from a crib to a toddler bed is a big milestone but can also cause sleep disruptions. The newfound freedom may tempt your child to get out of bed, making bedtime more difficult and leading to frequent night wakings.
5. Nighttime Fears: As children’s imagination grows, so do their fears. Nightmares or a fear of the dark may start to creep in around this age, which can make bedtime feel daunting for them.
6. Inconsistent Bedtime Routine: If your toddler or preschooler’s bedtime routine is inconsistent, their sleep habits can suffer. Routine is key to helping them feel secure and calm as they wind down for the night. Creating a predictable bedtime routine can help signal to your child that it’s time to sleep.
7. Illness: It’s no surprise that illness can disrupt a child’s sleep. Whether it’s a cold, ear infection, or teething, physical discomfort can cause night wakings or difficulty falling asleep.

Solutions for Better Sleep
If your toddler or preschooler’s sleep has been derailed, don’t worry—there are steps you can take to get back on track. Here are a few tips to help:

• Stick to a Consistent Routine: Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can signal to your child that it’s time to wind down and go to bed. Include calming activities like reading a book and taking a warm bath.
• Set Clear Boundaries: While it’s normal for toddlers and preschoolers to test limits, setting clear and consistent bedtime rules will help reinforce good sleep habits.
• Limit Screen Time: Try reducing screen time in the evening, particularly the hour or two before bed.
• Monitor Diet: Keep an eye on what your child eats and drinks, especially before bed. Reducing sugar intake and avoiding hidden sources of caffeine can improve sleep quality.
• Encourage Physical Activity: Ensure your toddler or preschooler gets enough exercise during the day, but avoid overly stimulating activities right before bedtime.

Final Thoughts
Sleep disruptions in toddlers and preschoolers can be frustrating. Still, they are often temporary and can be managed with a few adjustments. By understanding the factors that might impact your child’s sleep and implementing some simple strategies, you can help them (and yourself!) get the rest they need.

If you’re struggling with your toddler’s sleep, I’m here to help! Feel free to reach out for personalized support and guidance.
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Author

Erin Neri - Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant and Owner of To The Moon and Back Sleep Consulting since 2016. 

Proud mother of 2 young school aged boys who did not come into the world  preprogrammed with independent sleep skills. 28+ years of training & experience working with children and families including her BA in Applied Psychology, Infant Mental Health Training, Early Childhood Education & Experience. Completed Integrative Feeding Specialist Certification in Oct. 2022. ​