Sleep deprivation refers to inadequate sleep. As grown-ups, we tend to become sluggish when we are tired. But if your toddler is not getting adequate sleep, he/she may become more active. So, the signs can be challenging to find.
It is important to note that usually, a one-year-old may sleep for more than 12 hours each day, together with a two-hour daytime siesta. By the time he/she is three, this will be decreased to around 12 hours, which might or might not include a one-hour siesta during the day. If your toddler seems to be sleeping less than he/she is accustomed to, it may just be that he/she needs less sleep now that he/she is a little older.
 But, at times, your toddler might not be getting the sleep he needs. If he/she continues to lose sleep, he/she may become sleep-deprived. Signs that indicate your toddler is sleep-deprived
If you think that your toddler is not getting adequate sleep, there are certain signs that you can watch for:
- Having difficulty getting to sleep. Sleep deprivation may make it difficult to get your toddler to settle at bedtime and night.
- Being short-tempered and grumpy during the day. All toddlers have their cranky moments, but if your toddler appears to be in a bad mood all the time, inadequate sleep could be the reason.
- Sleeping late in the morning. Most toddlers wake comparatively early in the morning, so if your toddler is asleep late, he may not be getting adequate sleep.
- Overactive behavior. Inadequate sleep can make it challenging for your kid to focus, and he may become unfocused easily. This might make him appear over-thrilled and more fidgety than typical.
He falls asleep outside of his normal nap and sleeps times regularly. After a routine has been set, toddlers typically like to stick to it. Thus, if he is falling asleep in weird places at random times, he might need a bit more shut-eye.
Causes of sleep deprivation in toddler
Changes to the routine or surroundings of the toddler may, at times, affect his sleep patterns. The arrival of a new sibling, going on a family holiday, moving house, or moving to a big bed can affect his capability to settle himself to sleep. He might need time to settle into his new routine or get accustomed to any changes in his world.
Teething or illness can also disrupt your toddler’s sleep, owing to pain or discomfort. Cough, a stifling nose, or a molar coming out may make it difficult to settle back to sleep if he wakes up or drifts off at bedtime.
Few pediatricians believe that sleep disruption can be a sign of a growth spurt or a suggestion that your toddler is learning a new skill. If this is the case, you will possibly find that he settles back to his usual routine in a few days.
Occasionally, difficulty sleeping can be a symptom of something else. Sleep apnea is a condition in which the airways in the throat become either completely or partly blocked during sleep and interrupt breathing. Even though it sounds upsetting, sleep apnea is a common and treatable condition. Your pediatrician will be able to verify a diagnosis and suggest the best treatment for your kid.
Tips for Improving Your Child’s Sleep
- Set up a regular time for bed every night and do not differ from it. In the same manner, the waking time must be similar from weekend to weekday by more than 1 to 1 and half hours.
- Make a soothing bedtime routine, such as reading a story or offering your child a warm bath.
- Do not offer kids any drinks with caffeine at least six hours earlier than bedtime.
- Avoid offering children big meals close to bedtime.
- Ensure that the bedroom temperature is comfortable and dark.
- Ensure the noise level in the house is low.
- Make playtime after dinner a soothing time, as too much activity near to bedtime can keep children wide awake.
- There should be no radio, television, mobile phone, computer, or music playing while the child is going to sleep. Video games and TV should be switched off at least one hour prior to bedtime.
Infants and children must be put to bed when they look tired but still awake.
Consult with the healthcare provider of the child if these tips do not help or if you need added guidance.
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