Toddler Sleep and Bedtime Routines
Getting your toddler off to bed and sleeping peacefully can often be a challenge. To ensure they get the sleep needed to be healthy and happy, create a bedtime routine that eases them into bed while strengthening the bond you share.
As your toddler starts becoming more and more independent and doing so many things for themselves, it's tempting to think of them as "beyond babyhood." But keep in mind that they still have many of the same needs they had as a baby. They still need a lot of attention, a lot of cuddling and a lot of sleep. In fact, toddlers need between 12 and 14 hours of sleep in total, usually 11 to 12 hours at night and another 1 to 3 hours during the day.
Sleep Time and Your Toddler
While most toddlers have learned to sleep through the night, changes and stressful events such as switching from the cot to bed at too early an age, a trip or illness may cause temporary setbacks.
To ensure your toddler gets the rest and sleep they need follow these bedtime tips:
Set a regular sleep schedule for naptime and bedtime (avoid naptime in the late afternoon)
Establish a 20- to 45-minute night-time routine to help them wind down and relax
Provide a soothing surrounding that is dark, cool and quiet
Your child should be drowsy but awake when going to bed
Save their favourite night-time activity for last
Create a Night-time Routine
A before-bed routine will help your toddler become sleepy and signals it is time to relax and prepare for sleep. Make sure that you stay consistent and follow the same pattern every evening. Your child will feel more relaxed if they know what is coming next. Also, make sure their bedtime routine is always heading in the same direction — bed.
Good sleep is essential. Try the AVEENO® Baby 3-step routine.*
Our AVEENO® Baby 3-step routine* includes warm bath and massage, two rituals that are key to your baby’s happy healthy development. When done regularly, these rituals, combined with the cuddles of quiet time, also help your baby know that it’s time for sleep.
*Clinically proven routine helps baby fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Clinical study, tested on babies 7 months +, 1 week + use.