Is your toddler waking up before 6am, ready to start the day while you’re desperate for more sleep? Early morning wake-ups are common, but with a few tweaks, you can help your little one sleep longer.
Why Do Toddlers Wake Up Early?
Overtiredness – Late bedtimes, skipped naps, or frequent night waking can lead to early rising.
Too Much Daytime Sleep – While naps are important, too much sleep during the day can push wake-up time earlier.
Light & Noise Sensitivity – Natural light or household sounds can stir a toddler from light sleep between 4-6am.
Hunger – If dinner is too early or they’ve had a poor appetite, hunger could wake them early.
How to Encourage Later Wake-Ups:
✔ Adjust Bedtime – An overtired toddler may wake early, so try an earlier bedtime. If they’re sleeping too much, shifting bedtime slightly later might help.
✔ Keep the Room Dark & Quiet – Blackout blinds and white noise can help prevent early waking due to light or sounds.
✔ Use a Toddler Clock – A sleep-training clock helps your child understand when it's time to get up. Pair it with a simple phrase like, "Stay in bed until the clock turns green!"
✔ Resist Reinforcing the Early Wake-Up – Try not to start the day immediately. Keep the lights dim, offer a cuddle, or encourage quiet play in the cot or bed.
✔ Check Their Nap Routine – Ensure your toddler is getting the right amount of daytime sleep for their age. Too much or too little can impact early mornings.
Consistency Is Key!
Early wake-ups won’t change overnight, but with a consistent approach, you can gradually help your toddler sleep later. Need personalised sleep support? I’d love to help!
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