Top Reasons Toddler Sleep is Hard
Toddler sleep is hard for several reasons, most of which come down to developmental changes, emotional shifts, and the growing need for independence. However, they WILL eventually show their love back to you, even after working on their sleep and behavior with our TODDLER SLEEP COURSE, I promise! 🥰 👇
Here's a breakdown of why sleep during the toddler years (roughly 1–3 years old) can feel like a constant battle:
Brain Activity
Toddlers’ brains stay active even during sleep, which can lead to more night wakings and restless sleep. They are are exploding with new skills physically, emotionally, and cognitively—walking, talking, problem-solving.
They REALLY grow emotionally between ages 4-5 and their empathy and appreciation start shining through. With sleep, you can enjoy it.
Those that protest loudly, also love loudly as they get older, I promise! They will also become your little helpers if you choose to have another. These new skills that start as sleep disrupters end up being extremely useful for the family as a whole, if channeled appropriately.
Boundaries are hard for us parents!
Around 18 months to 2.5 years, many toddlers go through a second wave of separation anxiety. Bedtime feels like a major goodbye, leading to clinginess, protests, or stalling, so how can we know as parents when to enact boundaries?
The answer? You do both— intentionally. You nurture their need for your support, while helping them cope with ways to sleep independently. This is a process and won’t happen overnight. But remember…
Healthy sleep boundaries are a form of love and security. Children feel safer and parents feel healthier WITH loving boundaries. This does not have to mean doing “cry it out” in the slightest!
Parental Confusion
I remember thinking sleep training was synonomous with the “cry it out” method. I was so scared that sleep “training” would hurt our bond or attachment. But that couldn’t have been further from the truth! It made me a better mother and created two great sleepers.
I work on both of my little ones’ behavior every day with the help of routine charts, consistent boundaries, and lots of positive reinforcements. It’s really hard and far from perfect, but our bond actually grows closer the more they learn to listen and respect me. As I tell them, “the more you listen, the more time we have for fun things,” like reading another book, or playing our favorite “This or That” game.
Limited Resources for Toddler Sleep
We’ve all heard of the dreaded 4 month sleep regression, but what about the “terrible two sleep protest?” Infant strategies do not always transfer to toddlers, so please do not think you’re going crazy or something is broken— no. Simply put, your child is outsmarting traditional baby sleep strategies. You need a new step-by-step approach, with a prep plan, rules taught in imaginative ways, loving boundaries, and positive reinforcements.
If your little one is kicking your a** with sleep, they just need a little extra guidance. You are not alone. It WILL get better if you seek the RIGHT help and support.
For a limited time, we are offering our TODDLER SLEEP COURSE for just $75! You will learn all you need to know to get your little one sleep independently in just10 days. Here's what you'll learn in my one-hour, no BS toddler sleep course:
🧠 Understanding Toddler Sleep
Sleep needs by age (e.g., 19 months-5 years old)
Stages of sleep and how they affect behavior
Common sleep regressions (18-month, 2-year, etc.)
Circadian rhythm development in toddlers
🛌 Establishing Healthy Sleep Habits
How to create a consistent bedtime routine
Ideal sleep environment (lighting, temperature, noise)
Setting a realistic and age-appropriate bedtime
Naps—how many, how long, and when to drop them
😫 Dealing with Sleep Challenges
Bedtime battles and stalling tactics
Night wakings and how to respond
Early morning wakings
Separation anxiety and sleep disruptions
Managing transitions (crib to bed, co-sleeping to independent sleep)
👶 Sleep Strategies
Gradual methods (e.g., Ferber, Chair method)
Gentle approaches (e.g., Pick Up/Put Down, No tears)
Establishing boundaries without trauma
🧩 Behavior and Development Considerations
Sleep and toddlers' independence
Managing fears and nightmares
The impact of nutrition, screen time, and daily schedule on sleep
📋 Personalized Sleep Plans
Add a call for personalized sleep plans and a course Q&A!
Ready to get started?
Not ready to commit? Book a FREE Intro Call or Text Us (863-608-1881) to chat through options or get your questions answered.
Sending love and sleepy dust! ♥️💤✨
Jackie
