Toddler Waking Up Too Early: How To Help Your Child Sleep Longer

Why is my toddler waking up so early? That is a common question many exhausted parents face during their child’s early years. You may be understandably frustrated if your toddler wakes up too early and won’t go back to sleep. No one has an easy time with their toddler waking up at 5am (or earlier). 

Fortunately, there are strategies you can use to stop your toddler waking up too early. Learn how to get toddler to sleep later so you can enjoy a restful night of sleep. 

Why Is My Toddler Waking Up Too Early?

Why do kids wake up so early to begin with? Your toddler might struggle with later wake times in the morning for many reasons. While early morning waking toddler can be stressful, they’re developmentally normal for active, busy toddlers. If your toddler wakes up at 4am every day, it’s time to look at what might be causing it. 

Inadequate Sleep at Night

Toddlers should be sleeping 11 to 14 hours each day, including naps. If your child isn’t getting enough sleep at night and has a disrupted sleep schedule, they’ll likely wake up abnormally early.  

Insufficient Nap Time During the Day

Many parents believe longer naps are detrimental to nighttime sleep, but the opposite is often true. If your toddler goes to bed at night overtired, they might not sleep as long as they should. Longer nap times will help them manage their nighttime sleep much better. 

Room Environment and Lighting

Your toddler needs a dark, quiet room to remain in restful sleep cycles. If their room is too bright or noisy, they may start waking up early. 

Hunger or Thirst

Toddlers may wake up early because they want food or water. These essential bodily functions will take priority over sleep until they’re satisfied. 

Teething Discomfort

Teething doesn’t stop in the infant years. Your toddler might have tooth and gum pain preventing them from sleeping in. 

Illness or Discomfort

If your toddler is coming down with a virus, they probably aren’t comfortable enough to sleep well. Their little body is working hard to fight off a nasty illness, and they can’t sleep like they usually do.  

Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a normal part of toddlerhood. Your little one misses you and wants to be close to you — even more than they want to sleep. 

Changes in Routine or Schedule

If your family life has recently changed, this can throw off your toddler’s internal clock. As a result, they may start waking up earlier than expected. 

Developmental Milestones

Child brain development can cause temporary changes in your toddler’s sleep patterns. If your toddler wakes up crying every morning bright and early, this may be why. 

Sleep Regression

Sleep regression occurs at different stages in infants and toddlers. These regressions are temporary but can be frustrating and exhausting for caregivers. 

How to Get Toddlers to Sleep Later: 8 Tips

Instead of endlessly searching “how to get toddler to sleep later,” use these tips as your guide. You may be surprised at how effective some of them are!

Adjust Their Bedtime

Your toddler may need a later bedtime, according to their nap schedule. That can help prevent early wakings and give your whole family more time to rest. 

Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment

Restful sleep starts with a comfortable bedtime routine. Reading books for young children can help them wind down and prevent toddlers’ early waking times. Make sure they have plenty of comfort objects available for soothing. 

Evaluate Nap Times

If your toddler naps too early or late in the day, it can throw off their sleep schedule. Evaluate the best nap times for your child and adjust their schedule gradually as needed. 

Encourage Physical Activity During the Day

An active lifestyle for toddlers can encourage better sleeping habits at night. When your little one is thoroughly worn out, they can get plenty of rest and let your family sleep in a bit the next morning. 

Maintain a Consistent Routine

Your toddler thrives on routine. Ensure their daily and nightly routines are consistent and reliable, avoiding unknowns that cause them stress. A relaxing bedtime routine will also promote better sleep hygiene for your little one. 

Ensure a Healthy Diet

Getting a toddler to eat healthy foods is a common struggle for parents. Using our expert techniques, you can coax more nutrients into your child’s diet. That will promote healthy sleep cycles and encourage their bodies to get the needed rest. 

Be Patient and Persistent

Solving toddler sleep struggles doesn’t happen overnight. Be patient but firm with your little one. Remind them that certain times are for sleeping or quietly resting, not playing. With persistence and patience, your toddler will fall into a healthy routine. 

Seek Professional Advice if Needed

Childcare professionals and sleep consultants know all the best tips and tricks for encouraging your toddler to sleep in. If none of these techniques work, it might be time to call a professional for help. 

Find Great Childcare With Go Au Pair

You don’t have to manage your toddler waking up too early on your own. Au pairs are highly equipped to help your toddler thrive with sleeping, eating, and other essential habits. Signup with our au pair agency to get started!