How to get 2-year-olds to sleep?
Putting a 2-year-old child to sleep can be a challenge. However, several strategies exist that can help.
Ensuring that all a child's basic needs are fulfilled is crucial. You also have to see if the child has any potential illnesses or other discomfort-causing conditions, like teething [1].
The next step is to ensure a proper sleeping environment [1]. Safety is also a key feature of your mind. Knowing that the room is child-proof and safe allows you to focus on the child.
Also, if the child fears the dark, putting a small light in the room can help. This way, the sleeping environment will feel safer and more welcoming [1].
Another thing to remember that helps children fall asleep easier is a consistent sleeping routine. Regular bedtimes and rituals allow the 2-year-old to prepare to go to sleep before going to bed [1].
If the 2-year-old stands up from the bed and leaves the room, do not shout or be angry. Calmly put the child back to bed every time it happens [1].
At least one hour before the child sleeps, avoid screen exposure. When a 2-year-old looks at a screen before sleep, it can lead to delays in falling asleep and sleep reduction [1].
If a child's routine or sleeping time changes, be patient. It takes time for the child to adjust to the new sleep schedule [1].
How to make a 2-year-old child tired?
Physical activity is a great way to make a 2-year-old tired.
It increases energy expenditure and makes the child want to sleep. Any physical activity is good. It can be playing games or running around.
The key for this strategy to work is to connect physical activity with a regular sleep schedule. Putting the child to bed at around the same time every day allows for setting up an internal clock, which makes falling asleep easier [1].
What can make a 2-year-old not sleep?
A potential reason a 2-year-old can not sleep is development. Rapid growth can make the child restless and difficult to fall asleep [1].
Teething is a common problem in young children. The appearance of the molar teeth can cause the 2-year-old discomfort or even pain, which can impact the child’s ability to sleep [1].
Another thing that can stop a child from sleeping is separation anxiety. Some children become very stressed without their parents. They may even wish for the parent to be present while they fall asleep [1].
Additionally, children can experience transient or sustained anxieties about things they discover in the world. Such problems, even when they may appear silly, can lead to difficulty sleeping [1].
Also, overtiredness can contribute to sleep problems in a 2-year-old. In such a state, the child can have difficulties calming down to fall asleep [1].
The introduction of new family conditions, like a new sibling who also demands your attention, can also lead to sleep problems [1].
Prolonged naps during the day can also make it difficult for the child to fall asleep [1].
What natural remedies can help a 2-year-old fall asleep?
To help a 2-year-old fall asleep, you may introduce some new routines. For example, you may read a book, tell a story, or sing a lullaby. You may dim the lights during reading and relax the child by playing soothing music [1, 2].
You can use essential oils to create a relaxing atmosphere for sleep. Generally, they have a natural relaxing effect. Traditionally, essential oils are used for treating insomnia in babies, as they make falling asleep easier. You can use, for example, chamomile oil [3].
Diet can also help with sleep. Consuming a lot of vegetables is beneficial for good sleep, while fast foods and soft drinks are linked to sleep disruption [4].
Dimmed night lights may help some children create a more comfortable sleep environment [1, 2].