You thought you were past the sleepless nights. Your toddler was finally sleeping through, and then—bam!—suddenly you’re being summoned at 2 AM like they’re ordering room service. If you're wondering what gives, you're not alone. Night wakings in toddlers are incredibly common, and even the most seasoned sleepers can hit a rocky patch.
The toddler years are filled with huge developmental changes—language is exploding, independence is blooming, and emotions are BIG. Combine that with a budding imagination and a stronger sense of attachment, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for nighttime disruptions.
One of the most common culprits? Separation anxiety. Around 18 to 24 months, toddlers can become hyper-aware that you're not there while they sleep—and that realization can cause a lot of upset. Add in the possibility of nightmares (around 3-3.5 years old!) or the occasional night terror, and suddenly bedtime can feel less like a peaceful wind-down and more like navigating a minefield of “one more hug” and “I need water.”
Sleep needs also start to shift in this stage. Some toddlers begin to transition out of naps earlier than others, and for many, bedtime becomes a delicate dance of getting the timing just right. Too early and they may treat bedtime like a power nap. Too late and their little bodies become overtired, making it even harder for them to settle or stay asleep through the night.
And then there are the curveballs: teething, travel, illness, potty learning, a new sibling, moving to a big kid bed—any of these can shake up sleep for a few nights (or more).
So, what can you do?
Start by staying calm and predictable in your response. Keep the nighttime wake-ups boring—think dim lights, calm voices, minimal interaction. Offer reassurance without creating new habits you don’t want to keep long-term (like letting them sleep in your bed if that’s not the goal).
Reintroduce or reinforce a solid bedtime routine. A consistent wind-down helps your toddler feel safe, secure, and ready for rest. And don’t underestimate the power of a comfort object—a lovey or nightlight can go a long way in helping your toddler feel secure without needing you by their side.
It also helps to talk about it during the day. If your toddler is waking frequently and seems anxious, validate their feelings when everyone’s well-rested. “You were sad last night when you woke up and couldn’t find me. That’s okay. I’m always close by, even when you sleep.”
Lastly, evaluate their schedule. Are they napping too long or too late in the day? Is bedtime consistent? Are they getting enough physical activity and connection during the day?
Toddler sleep can feel like a rollercoaster—and you’re not doing anything wrong if it gets bumpy again. It’s just a sign that your little one is growing, learning, and needing a little extra support. With consistency, comfort, and a sprinkle of patience, you’ll all be back to sweet dreams soon.
