What are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid During Sleep Regression?

Parenting a toddler can be a rollercoaster, especially when sleep troubles hit. If you’re dealing with a 4-month-old or even a 3-year-old sleep regression, you’re not alone.

 Many parents face this challenge, wondering why their once-perfect sleeper now fights bedtime. Don’t worry—we’ve got your back.

This post will guide you through common mistakes to avoid during this tricky phase, helping you and your little one get back on track as smoothly as possible.

We’ll explore practical tips for maintaining healthy sleep habits, navigating bedtime battles, and creating a peaceful nighttime routine that benefits your toddler and you.

By removing these pitfalls, you’ll be better equipped to handle your toddler’s changing sleep needs and emerge from this phase with your sanity intact.

8 Mistakes to Avoid During Sleep Regression

1. Don’t break your Bedtime Routine

Maintaining your bedtime routine is key when your 3-year-old is going through sleep changes. Your child finds comfort in knowing what comes next.

Stick to your usual pattern—maybe it’s bath time, then a story, and some cuddles. This routine helps your little one’s body and mind prepare for sleep.

Even if bedtime feels like a battle, don’t relinquish your routine. Some nights might take longer, but staying consistent will help your child settle down better.

Remember, this tricky sleep phase won’t last forever, and your steady routine will help you both get through it.

2. Avoid Co-Sleeping

While it might seem like a quick fix, bringing your 3-year-old into bed can create more problems. Co-sleeping might offer short-term comfort but can lead to long-term sleep issues.

Your child might start relying on your presence to fall asleep. This habit can be hard to break later on. Plus, a toddler in your bed means less rest for you. Instead, try comforting your child in their room.

This helps them feel safe in their space while maintaining healthy sleep boundaries, which will benefit them in the long run you.

3. Don’t Put Your Child to Sleep Awake

When dealing with a 3-year-old’s sleep changes, timing is everything. Putting your child to bed when they’re wide awake can lead to struggles.

Wait until they show tiredness – yawning, rubbing eyes, or getting quiet. This “drowsy but awake” state is ideal for helping them drift off independently.

If they’re not sleepy at bedtime, try adjusting their daily routine. Maybe they need less nap time or more active play during the day.

4. Do Not Push Back Bedtime

It might be tempting to make bedtime later when your 3-year-old is fighting sleep. But this can throw off their whole sleep schedule.

A later bedtime doesn’t mean they’ll sleep in – they might become overtired and crankier. Stick to your usual bedtime as much as possible.

If your child isn’t sleepy, try making their pre-bed routine longer and more relaxing. This can help them wind down without changing the time they go to bed.

5. Avoid Lying Down with Your Child

Lying down with your 3-year-old might seem like a good way to help them sleep, but this can create a hard-to-break habit.

Your child might start needing you there to fall asleep every night. Instead, try sitting next to their bed for a short time. Gradually move further away over several nights.

This helps your child learn to fall asleep on their own while still feeling your support nearby.

6. Don’t Leave on All the Lights

A bright room can make it hard for your 3-year-old to settle down. Their body naturally produces sleep hormones in darkness.

Use dim lighting during bedtime, then switch to a small nightlight if needed. If your child is afraid of the dark, a soft nightlight can help.

But avoid bright or blue lights, as these can interfere with sleep. Blackout curtains can also help create a sleep-friendly environment.

7. Do Not Limit Daytime Activities

While limiting activity to tire out your 3-year-old might seem logical, too little stimulation can hinder sleep. Ensure your child gets plenty of physical play and mental stimulation during the day.

This helps them use energy and feel more ready to rest at night. Just be careful not to schedule exciting activities too close to bedtime, as this can make it harder for them to wind down.

8. Don’t Go Through This Alone

Dealing with a 3-year-old’s sleep regression can be exhausting. Don’t try to handle it all by yourself. If possible, share nighttime duties with your partner.

If you’re parenting solo, don’t hesitate to ask family or friends for help. Even a short break can help you recharge.

Remember, caring for yourself is crucial – a well-rested parent is better equipped to handle sleep challenges.

Conclusion

Sleep changes during any phase of toddlerhood can be tough, but they don’t last forever. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help your child navigate this tricky time more smoothly.

Remember to keep routines steady, avoid quick fixes that might cause problems later, and pay attention to your child’s sleep cues. 

It’s also important to maintain a good sleep environment and stick to regular bedtimes. Don’t forget to take care of yourself, too—parenting during sleep regression is challenging.

With patience and consistency, you and your little one will get through this phase. Soon enough, you’ll enjoy more restful nights and happier days.