Typical sleep at
this age
Between the ages of 2 - 3 years, the sleep pattern of the toddler resembles that of an
adult. Toddlers tend to sleep about 11 hours at night and have single nap in the afternoon
of 1½ to 2 hours. |
|
The toddlers sleep consists more of the light REM period, as
he is making more transitions from one sleep phase to another, so he will wake up more
often than an adult does. That way, it is important that he learns to soothe himself back
to sleep.
Establishing healthy sleep habits
This includes :
| a. |
Moving the toddler in a big bed
and praising him when he stays in it at bedtime and overnight. If the toddler gets up,
temper your reaction, and simply take him to bed, telling him it is time to go to sleep,
and leave |
| b. |
Anticipate the requests which the
toddler may ask for before going to sleep e.g story-telling, a glass of water etc. The
parent should be ready to comply with the extra requests such as one more story, one more
kiss, but make it clear that one is the limit. In this way, the toddler will feel that he
is getting his way but actually you will know that you are getting yours. |
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