How To Shift Toddler Bedtime Later

As your toddler grows and develops, their sleep patterns will change. One common change is that they will start to wake up earlier in the morning. If you're not ready to wake up at the crack of dawn, you may be wondering how to shift your toddler's bedtime later. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

1. Gradually adjust bedtime

Don't try to shift your toddler's bedtime by hours all at once. Start by moving it back 15 or 30 minutes each night. This will give your toddler time to adjust and will help to prevent them from getting overtired.

2. Create a relaxing bedtime routine

A relaxing bedtime routine can help your toddler wind down before bed. Some things you can include in your routine are:

A warm bath
A massage
Reading a book
Singing a song

3. Make sure your toddler's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool

These conditions are ideal for sleep. Make sure your toddler's bedroom is dark by using blackout curtains or blinds. You can also use a white noise machine or fan to block out noise. And finally, keep the temperature in your toddler's bedroom cool, around 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. Avoid caffeine and sugar before bed

Caffeine and sugar can interfere with sleep. Avoid giving your toddler caffeine or sugar in the hours leading up to bedtime.

5. Get your toddler up at the same time each day

Even on weekends. This will help to regulate their body's natural sleep-wake cycle.

6. Be patient

It may take some time to shift your toddler's bedtime later. Be patient and consistent with your approach, and eventually you will see results.

Additional tips

Here are a few additional tips that may help you shift your toddler's bedtime later:

Make sure your toddler is getting enough sleep. Toddlers typically need 11-14 hours of sleep per day.
Avoid letting your toddler nap too close to bedtime. Napping too close to bedtime can make it harder for them to fall asleep at night.
If your toddler is waking up in the night, try to avoid giving them attention. This will only make it harder for them to fall back asleep.
Talk to your doctor if you're having trouble shifting your toddler's bedtime later. There may be an underlying medical condition that is interfering with their sleep.

Shifting your toddler's bedtime later can take some time and effort, but it's definitely possible. By following these tips, you can help your toddler get the sleep they need and wake up at a more reasonable hour.