How to Cure Toddler Insomnia

When sleep doesn't come easy to your toddler, the rest of the household suffers, too. Toddler insomnia can make both you and your toddler cranky and edgy. Here are some ideas to cure toddler insomnia. Try one, try them all!

During the daytime:

1) Eliminate caffeine. While it's doubtful that you're handing your toddler a can of pop, think about other ways caffeine may be sneaking into his diet, such as chocolate milk. Even the smallest amount of caffeine can really rev some kids up and cause toddler insomnia, especially close to bedtime.

2) Be sure your toddler is getting enough activity. A restless mind that sits in front of the TV all day will be restless at night, too. Get physical: take a walk, go to the park, kick a ball around, build a snowman, enroll in a toddler tumbling or creative movement class. A tired body will soon overcome an active mind. Work that brain, too, with age-appropriate puzzles, flash cards, and matching games.

3) No naps during the day. If your toddler is napping during the day and not sleeping at night, this might be the cause of your toddler's insomnia...and the cure. If he gets grouchy in the afternoon, try some quiet time instead of a nap.

At night, create a relaxing bedtime environment and establish a bedtime routine:

4) Start out with a calming lavender and chamomile bath.

5) Follow the bath with a relaxing massage.

6) No stimulating movies or television shows at bedtime.

7) Turn the lights down and snuggle up for a bedtime story (preferably one that ends with the subject going to sleep).

8) Turn on some relaxing music, such as Baby Mozart. Keep the volume low.

9) Make sure the room is a comfortable temperature, relatively dark, and quiet. Fleece footy pajamas are great for a toddler who kicks off the covers, but he may be too hot if the heat is turned up. And if your toddler can hear you talking or the TV on in the next room, he may feel left out and stay awake.

10) Warm milk or a light snack an hour or two before bedtime. A full belly helps little ones sleep through the night. If your child is getting enough physical activity during the day, weight gain shouldn't be a concern. Be sure to brush teeth before bed.

11) As a last resort, discuss using a natural, non-habit forming sleep aid such as Calms Forte or Melatonin with your child's pediatrician. Only use these products on the advice of your pediatrician.