Sleep Consultants for Toddlers
Welcome tired parents of toddlers! If you've been in the toddler sleep struggle, you're not alone.
My approach to working with toddlers is different than my approach to working with babies. While in both types of situations I specialize in helping children establish healthy sleep habits, I use different approaches and strategies based on the age and developmental stage of the child, their temperament, and the parents’ parenting style.
How sleep consultants for toddlers help sleep training:
Sleep training toddlers comes with its own challenges, but fear not—we've got the strategies to make bedtime a breeze. In this blog, we'll explore the nuances of sleep training for toddlers, offer three game-changing strategies, and discuss how a sleep consultant can be your guiding star in achieving the coveted goal of your toddler sleeping soundly through the night in their own bed.
Why is sleep training a toddler different?
Sleep training a toddler is different from working with infants. Toddlers have a growing sense of independence and a developing understanding of routines. Recognizing these changes is the first step in crafting a tailored sleep plan.
Three Proven Strategies for Toddler Sleep Training:
a. Consistent Bedtime Routine: Toddlers thrive on routine. Establish a consistent bedtime routine to signal the transition from playtime to sleep. Whether it's a warm bath, a favorite story, or a calming lullaby, a predictable routine helps toddlers ease into sleep mode.
b. Positive Reinforcement: Introduce a reward system to encourage positive sleep behavior. Create a sticker chart or a small reward system for nights when your toddler sleeps in their bed without disruptions. Positive reinforcement can turn bedtime battles into bedtime victories.
c. Gradual Independence: Transitioning from co-sleeping to solo sleeping is a milestone. Gradually increase the distance between you and your toddler during bedtime. This could mean starting with sitting by the bed and moving towards leaving the room once your toddler feels secure.
The Role of a Sleep Consultant for Toddlers:
Sleep consultants are like superheroes for tired parents. They bring expertise, experience, and a personalized approach to toddler sleep challenges. A sleep consultant can assess your toddler's unique needs, customize a sleep plan, and provide ongoing support and guidance. They're the secret weapon in turning sleep goals into reality.
Toddlers have different sleep needs and may be more resistant to certain sleep training methods than babies. When working with toddlers, I work very closely with his/her parents to analyze what is the problem. Is this a habit? Are they scared? Separation anxiety? From there, I come up with a plan and work with their parents to adjust depending on specific situations and needs.
I focus on teaching toddlers how to transition from a crib to a toddler bed, dealing with bedtime resistance, being scared of the dark, scared of shadows or separation anxiety, and establishing consistent nap schedules.
Sometimes, I just need to get a toddler back to their healthy sleep habits after he or she was sick or after a transition.
Visual schedules, timers and social stories are great strategies to use when working with toddlers. I always coach parents on how to make these according to their specific situation and I always help modify them during our time as their toddler’s needs change.
I have a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and taught preschool age children for over 10 years before becoming a sleep consultant. I use a lot of the same behavioral strategies I used in my classroom along with everything I know about sleep while aligning it with your parenting style & goals to help your toddler have healthy sleep habits!
Sleep training toddlers requires patience, consistency, and a dash of creativity. By understanding the differences between infants and toddlers, implementing effective strategies, and enlisting the support of a sleep consultant, you can pave the way for peaceful nights and well-rested mornings. Say goodbye to bedtime battles and hello to the sweet sound of your toddler peacefully sleeping through the night in their own bed. Sweet dreams await! Book your 15 minute introductory call with Jenna here.
