Navigating Toddler Sleep while Expecting Baby # 2
You're excited about the new baby—but you may also be wondering, “What is going to happen to my toddler's sleep?”
1. Get Sleep on Solid Ground—But Don't Chase Perfection
If your toddler’s sleep routine is already predictable and consistent, you’re ahead of the game. But if sleep is a challenge, now is the time to address it.
Focus on:
A Consistent Routine: Toddlers thrive on predictability. Establishing a regular bedtime routine—such as bath, books, and cuddles—can help them feel secure through changes to their normal routine.
Independent Sleep Skills: If your toddler depends on you to fall asleep, consider some gentle sleep training, this can help them get the sleep they need to navigate the excitement and new emotions of a sibling’s arrival. This skill will be invaluable when your attention is divided after the baby arrives.
2. Make Big Sleep Changes Before the Baby Arrives
Big life changes can disrupt even the best sleepers. Whether it’s transitioning to a new bed or moving bedrooms to make space for the baby, aim to introduce these changes well before the baby arrives. This gives your toddler time to adjust without feeling displaced.
Timing Transitions: If your toddler is moving out of the crib, ideally, do it sooner rather than later; this way, the move doesn’t feel tied to the baby’s arrival. But I’m a big believer that cribs are an amazing sleep space, and if your routine with a crib works for your toddler and you, (and you don’t yet need the crib for baby) - you can absolutely just leave them sleeping there for now! My youngest slept in her crib until she was well into 4 years old!
Practice Patience: Allow for an adjustment period. Celebrate small wins and provide extra comfort as needed.
3. Share the Responsibility of your Toddler’s Sleep
If a partner/Dad is already involved in your little one’s sleep already - great! If Mom has always done bedtime, try to get Dad/partner involved before the baby arrives, this can make those newborn weeks much easier.
4. Protect Your Toddler's Connection With You
A new sibling often stirs up feelings of insecurity for toddlers. Prioritize one-on-one time with your toddler to reinforce their sense of connection.
Bedtime Bonding: Use the bedtime routine as a special opportunity for undivided attention (if this is something you haven’t passed off to your partner).
Bedtime reading: I find that for many kids, reading is their favourite part of their bedtime routine, consider adding in a new book about becoming a big brother or sister.
Acknowledging Emotions: Validate their feelings about the new baby. Let them know it’s okay to feel excited, nervous, or even upset.
5. Prepare Your Toddler for Changes to Their Routine
No matter how much you prepare, there will likely be an adjustment period after the baby’s arrival. Sleepless nights and unpredictable schedules are part of the newborn phase, but that doesn’t mean your toddler’s sleep has to suffer long-term.
The key will be staying consistent - stick to your toddler’s routine as much as possible, even if your partner or a family member steps in to help.
6. Expect Some Sleep Disruption After Baby Arrives
Flexibility Is Key: Be prepared for temporary setbacks, like extra wake-ups or difficulty falling asleep. These are normal and can be managed with patience and consistency.
7. Give Yourself Permission to Be Flexible
Progress, not perfection.
What If My Toddler's Sleep Falls Apart After Baby Arrives?
Go back to basics - bedtime routine, consistent bedtimes, etc.
Extra one-on-one time before bed - an extra story or time to chat before bed.
Let partner take on some of the bedtime responsibilities - sharing or passing off overnight responsibilities, some of bedtime and morning routine so that your toddler knows they have a support system that isn’t just mom.
Respond calmly - one or two bad nights doesn’t mean any established sleep behaviours are now gone forever.
Protect daytime sleep - having a nap during the day will help against over-tiredness at bedtime which can make emotions run high, and falling asleep more challenging.
Need Help Preparing for Baby #2?
Welcoming a second child is a joyful yet demanding time, and it’s natural to feel pulled in multiple directions. By planning ahead and focusing on your toddler’s sleep needs, you’ll create a smoother transition for everyone involved. Remember, the goal is progress, not perfection. You’ve got this!
If sleep challenges worsen or become a pattern, consider professional guidance or booking a free call to discuss the issue. As a sleep consultant I provide personalized strategies to address your toddler’s specific needs, while considering the dynamics of a growing family.
Sweet Dreams,
Katie
