Ashwin Lewis
Sleep regression in 2-year-olds is a common phenomenon, where toddlers experience a temporary disruption in their sleep patterns, such as waking up more frequently at night, taking shorter naps, or refusing bedtime. This usually occurs when toddlers are going through intense periods of development, such as learning to walk, talk, or potty train. Sleep regression can also be caused by life changes, such as starting school or the arrival of a new sibling. While it may be challenging, sleep training can help 2-year-olds develop healthy sleep habits and sleep independently. Various techniques, such as the fading method, chair method, and pick up, put down method, can be employed to gradually teach toddlers to fall asleep on their own and improve their sleep habits.
Characteristics of sleep training a 2-year-old during sleep regression
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleep training methods | Gradual or total extinction technique, fading technique, chair method, bedtime pass/ticket, bedtime clock |
| Sleep regression causes | Physical development, cognitive development, social development, teething, life changes (new sibling, starting school/daycare, potty training) |
| Sleep needs | 11-14 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period, including 10-12 hours of night sleep and 1-2 hours of daytime sleep |
| Sleep training tips | Consistency, undivided attention, offering choices, keeping child in a crib, sleep coaching |
| Sleep regression duration | A few days to several weeks |
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What You'll Learn
Sleep training methods: gradual or total extinction, gentle, fading, chair method
Sleep training can be beneficial for both babies and parents, but it is not for everyone. Some people believe that sleep training is harmful and produces unnecessary stress for the infant. While there is no evidence that infant crying during sleep training causes harm, it is a valid concern.
Gradual or Total Extinction
Also known as the "cry-it-out" (CIO) method, this is one of the most controversial sleep training approaches. With the CIO method, you put your baby down for bed and do not come back until morning, regardless of how much they cry. This method is particularly difficult for parents, as it can be distressing to hear their baby cry. However, some people see success after just a few days.
The graduated extinction method, also known as the Ferber method, is a less harsh variation of the CIO method. With this approach, you will go in at set intervals to re-soothe the baby and then leave, gradually extending the length of each interval.
Gentle
Gentle sleep training methods include bedtime fading and the pick-up/put-down method. Bedtime fading involves paying close attention to your baby's sleep patterns and cues and adjusting their schedule to find the optimal bedtime. This method is based on the theory that if a baby isn't ready for sleep, they won't willingly go down. The fading approach can also refer to gradually reducing the amount of time you spend with your baby when it's time for bed.
The pick-up/put-down method involves putting your baby down for bed, and if they start to fuss, letting it happen for a little bit. If they don't settle down, you pick them up, soothe them, and then put them down again before they fall asleep in your arms. This process is repeated until they are asleep. This method requires a lot of dedication and patience.
Respectful sleep training is another gentle method that involves creating a secure attachment with your child, responding to their cues, and guiding them back to sleep. This technique does not focus on creating a strict routine.
Fading
The fading method involves using techniques such as rocking, soothing, singing, or babywearing to get your baby to fall asleep and then gradually lessening the time spent doing these things until they "fade" out. This method decreases the time a parent spends with their child at bedtime.
Chair Method
The chair method is a gradual process that involves putting your baby down, sitting in a chair close to the crib, and comforting them if necessary. Each night, you gradually move the chair toward the door until you're finally out of the room. This method may work for older babies who can be soothed by a parent's presence, but it may not be effective for babies who won't settle down with you sitting nearby. The chair method allows parents to stay close to their babies, which some prefer over the CIO or Ferber methods.
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Sleep training for twins
Sleep training twins can be challenging, but it is absolutely possible. The key is to be consistent with routines and boundaries, and to find a method that suits your parenting style and your twins' needs. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Keep a Sleep Log
Creating a sleep log is important when sleep training twins. It helps you keep track of their progress, patterns, and areas that need improvement. You can use a spreadsheet, a journal, or the notes app on your phone—whatever works best for you.
Adjust Sleep Times Based on Development
Most twins are born early, which means their sleep needs may be different from full-term babies. When setting up a sleep schedule, use their due date to determine their awake times and the number of naps they should be taking daily. This will ensure that they get the amount of sleep they need as they catch up on their development.
Create a Synchronized Schedule
Keeping a synchronized schedule for your twins can be beneficial. This means coordinating their sleep and awake times to be within 15 minutes of each other. For example, if Twin A wakes up from their first nap at 10:00 am, wake Twin B at 10:15 am, and start their next nap at 12:15 pm. This helps maintain consistency and ensures they are on the same sleep schedule.
Separate During the Day
If one twin is taking longer to adjust to naps, it's okay to separate them during the day and let them share a sleep space at night. Do whatever works best for your family dynamics and living space. The important thing is to ensure they are getting adequate sleep, even if it means some temporary separation during nap times.
Choose a Sleep Training Method
There are four main methods of sleep training: chair, crib, pick-up/put-down, and fading. If you've sleep-trained before, you can use a similar approach with your twins. If you're new to sleep training, consider consulting a professional who aligns with your parenting values to guide you through the process. Remember, sleep training doesn't have to mean leaving your twins to "cry it out." There are gentle approaches to help them learn to sleep independently.
Be Patient and Consistent
Sleep training twins may take longer than with a single baby, and setbacks can occur. Remain consistent with your chosen method, and remember that sleep regressions related to developmental progression are temporary. You can do this by introducing new habits or making adjustments as needed to get back on track.
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Sleep training for older kids
- Determine a course of action in advance. If your child comes to your room at night, calmly return them to their bed as many times as needed.
- Offer choices to make your child feel empowered and decrease bedtime battles. For example, ask them if they prefer a certain pair of pajamas or a specific toothpaste.
- Keep your child in a crib as long as possible. Transitioning to a big kid's bed too early can make sleep challenges worse.
- Fall back on sleep coaching. If your child doesn't adjust to healthy sleep habits within a month, consider sleep training.
- Consistency is key. If your child gets out of bed, calmly return them to bed, reassure them, and state the rules.
- Use a sleep training clock (also known as an "ok to wake" clock). These clocks are designed for children aged 2-3 years old and can help with early morning waking or getting out of bed.
- Evaluate your child's sleep schedule. Most 2-year-olds need 11-14 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period, including 10-12 hours of night sleep and 1.5-3 hours of daytime sleep.
- Try the fading technique. If your child usually falls asleep with some patting, gradually lessen the patting until you can completely stop.
- The chair method is another gentle sleep training approach. Sit next to your child's bed, and gradually move the chair further away each night until you're at the door. Eventually, you won't need to be in the room for your child to fall asleep.
- Remain consistent with routines and boundaries. Introducing new habits during a regression can make a temporary setback a long-term struggle.
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Sleep training classes
One example of a sleep training technique is the use of a "bedtime pass" or "bedtime ticket", which can help with bedtime battles and tantrums. Another popular method is the use of a sleep training clock, also known as an "ok to wake clock". This type of clock is recommended for children around 2-3 years old who are experiencing early morning wakings or getting out of bed multiple times. These clocks teach children to stay in bed until a certain time and can help reinforce healthy sleep habits.
Additionally, sleep training classes can provide you with a step-by-step plan to help your child sleep independently. This may include gradual changes to their sleep environment and routines, as well as strategies to minimise tears and anxiety during the sleep transition. Consistency is key when it comes to sleep training, and it may take a few days or weeks to see improvements in your child's sleep.
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to sleep training. The best method for your family will depend on your child's temperament, your parenting style, and your specific goals. By enrolling in a sleep training class, you can gain the knowledge and support you need to navigate sleep regression and improve your child's sleep habits.
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Sleep training clocks
There are many options available on the market, with various features and price points. Some clocks use a simple red and green light system to indicate sleeping time and awake time, respectively. Other clocks use a sun and stars display to indicate when it is time to rest and when it is time to get out of bed. Some clocks also come with multiple settings for sleeptime, playtime, wind-down time, and wake-up time.
When choosing a sleep training clock, it is important to consider the brightness of the light. Some clocks may be too bright and distracting for your child, while others may not dim enough and fail to wake your child. It is also worth noting that some clocks may be too big and clunky for travel.
- GroClock Sleep Trainer: This clock uses a sun and stars display to indicate sleeping time and awake time. It plugs into the wall, has an optional audible alarm, and gradually reduces the number of stars displayed to give children an indication of how much time has passed.
- LittleHippo MELLA Ready to Rise: This clock has three main settings: a red sleep setting, a yellow playtime setting, and a green "ok to wake" setting. It also has various night light colour options.
- Big Red Rooster Sleep Training Clock: This clock uses a red and green light system and also comes with a digital clock display. It includes a nap timer and an optional alarm and can be powered by an AC adapter or batteries.
- Mirari OK to Wake! Alarm Clock and Night Light: A budget-friendly option that includes a night light that children can turn on and off.
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Frequently asked questions
Sleep regression is a temporary disruption in a child's sleep pattern. This could manifest as waking more in the night, taking shorter naps, or fighting bedtime. Sleep regression usually occurs during periods of intense development or big transitions in a child's life.
Common signs of sleep regression in 2-year-olds include waking up frequently at night, refusing naps, or resisting bedtime.
Sleep regression can last from a few days to several weeks.
There are various methods to sleep train your toddler. One method is to calmly and consistently return your child to their bed as many times as it takes. You can also offer choices to make them feel empowered, such as choosing their pajamas or toothpaste. Another method is the "fading technique," where you gradually lessen the amount of patting or rocking until it is no longer needed.
It is important to remain consistent with routines and boundaries. Ensure your toddler is getting enough sleep during the day, as most 2-year-olds need 11-14 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. You can also try using an OK-to-wake clock to teach your toddler when it's time to get up in the morning.
