How to Deal With Overtiredness in Toddlers: Tips for Parents

It may be challenging to persuade your toddler to sleep if they are always overtired.

Getting kids to bed and keeping them there might be tricky, especially if they’re overtired.

This article gives some pointers and strategies for parents to deal with overtiredness in toddlers.

So, if you want to know how to deal with overtiredness in toddlers, read on!

How to Deal With Overtiredness in Toddlers

9 Strategies for Dealing With Overtiredness in Toddlers

If your toddler is overtired, you can do a few things to help them and help you too!

I’ve put together 9 strategies that will help you win this battle, so here they are:


1. Understand the signs of overtiredness in toddlers

tired toddler

The first step is to recognize the signs of overtiredness so that you can catch it early. The most common signs are:

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If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to start thinking about winding down for the day before all hell breaks loose!


2. Help them get back to their normal routine (including a bedtime routine)

When a toddler gets overtired, it can be challenging to get them back on track. One way to help them is to get them back to their normal routine as soon as possible. This might include going back to bed at their normal time, eating meals at the usual times, and playing with their favorite toys.

Another way to help an overtired toddler is to give them some quiet time to wind down. This might include reading a book together, listening to calm music, or cuddling. These are awesome sleep cues.

By providing your toddler some time to relax, you can help them ease back into their usual routine.


3. Be patient and understanding – they’re just tired!

tired toddler on lap

Being patient with an overtired toddler can be difficult, but it’s important to remember that they are just tired. Try to be understanding and sympathetic, and don’t get frustrated if they have a hard time. Sometimes all they need is a little patience and some rest.

If you are tired, it can be even harder to deal with a toddler who is also overtired. But try to take a deep breath and remember that this shall pass.

But, like with everything else, this phase will eventually end, and you’ll all be getting better sleep in no time. In the meantime, try not to get too angry with your toddler!


4. Offer plenty of fluids and snacks throughout the day

Often when toddlers are overtired, they can benefit from consuming more fluids and snacks. By ensuring that your child has plenty of options throughout the day, you can help to keep them hydrated and energized.

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Some good choices for fluids include water, milk, and fruit juice. Snacks can include items such as crackers, fruit, and yogurt.

Do not offer your toddler surgery snacks because they are overtired. This will only cause them to become more overtired and make it difficult to fall asleep at night. Instead, offer healthy snacks and drink options to have the energy they need to get through their day.


5. Avoid overscheduling your toddler’s day

scheduling (1)

One of the best ways to help your overtired toddler is by avoiding overscheduling their day. When toddlers are constantly on the go, it can be difficult to wind down and relax. This can lead to them being overtired and cranky.

Try to stick to a routine that allows your toddler some downtime each day so they can learn to relax when needed. It will be tough because we all know toddlers don’t like to chill, but it is worth a go!


6. Make sure your toddler gets enough sleep

It sounds counterintuitive, but you want to ensure your toddler gets enough sleep. This will help them feel better and not be so tired.

Make sure they have a good bedtime routine. This means a bath, brushing their teeth, and reading them a story. Then it is time for bed.

You want to make sure they are in their own room to sleep through the night.


7. Plan ahead for naps and bedtime

One of the best ways to help cope with overtiredness in toddlers is to plan for naps and bedtime. This means knowing when your toddler usually falls asleep and planning a nap and bedtime around that.

It also means establishing regular early bedtime routines, so your toddler knows what to expect. This can help them relax and fall asleep more easily.

Another tip is to make sure your toddler’s bedroom is conducive to sleep. This means keeping it dark, quiet, and cool.

You may also want to consider using a white noise machine to help them fall asleep and stay asleep. A white noise machine or a peaceful light projector are excellent tools to keep your toddler in their own bed all night and are great for battles with an overtired child.

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8. Reward good behavior with praise and positive reinforcement

rewards

One of the best ways to deal with overtiredness in toddlers is to reward good behavior with praise and positive reinforcement. This will help them feel good about themselves and make them more likely to behave in a way that you want.

Positive reinforcement can come in many forms, such as verbal praise, smiles, high-fives, or hugs. You can also use rewards like stickers, small toys, or special privileges.

Please do not overdo it, as too many rewards can lead to bad behavior.

Rewards are a great way to encourage good behavior, but you should use them in moderation.


9. Use a calming technique such as reading or singing a lullaby

Calming techniques can be a great way to help overtired toddlers relax and get some much-needed sleep.

Some calming techniques that may work for your child include reading or singing a lullaby, using a soft voice and gentle touch, or providing a calm and quiet environment to promote good sleep habits.

Breathing techniques are a great way to get your toddler to sleep! Just make sure you don’t fall asleep too!


Will overtired toddler eventually sleep?

toddler asleep (1)

The short answer is yes, an overtired toddler will eventually sleep. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s going to be easy for either of you.

Dealing with overtiredness in toddlers can be tough, and you just need a plan and some patience!


Conclusion

Overtiredness can be a difficult thing for toddlers and their parents to manage.

However, by using the strategies on this page, you can help your toddler get more rest and hopefully avoid some of the negative consequences of overtiredness.

the end result will be a well-rested toddler and healthy sleep for all!

Good luck!

DadGold

About ME

Let’s start with the obvious, I’m a dad.

I have 2 kids. One was dragged out from the comfort of his Mother’s womb kicking and screaming, and the other was a little easier.

Dad Gold was created to give tips that I wish someone had given me!

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