My toddler keeps waking up at night

THE PROBLEM: Toddler Kyle, aged 18 months, is constantly waking through the night.

His mum Billiejo says: I'd never really experienced any problems with Kyle sleeping through the night. But a few weeks ago he started waking around midnight and I'd settle him with a bottle of juice. Now he wakes up frequently through the night.

GITTE says: A toddler deprived of sleep can have difficulty functioning properly. The average toddler aged 1-3 years requires 10-13 hours sleep, made up from one long sleep at night or with added naps during the day.

Disturbed nights have upset Kyle's routine both during the day and at night. Billiejo needs to establish a proper bedtime routine at a regular hour and should start giving clear signals that night-time is different from day-time.

If your toddler isn't sleeping well, it can be tempting to put him to bed later. This can have the opposite effect because if he isn't getting enough sleep, he'll have more difficulties settling and sleeping through the night. Putting your toddler to bed slightly earlier can be far more beneficial.

The only drink you should offer during the night is water. Offering milk or juice will stimulate Kyle's palate; also, water is far better for Kyle's teeth.

Without realising it, Billiejo has actually provided Kyle with a reason to wake up at night. She should initially ignore Kyle's cries when he wakes. If it becomes clear he is not going to settle, then offer him water, but don't let him fall asleep drinking from the bottle.

Keep your night-time contact with your toddler minimal. Although it seems harsh, resist the temptation to pick up your toddler for a cuddle as this attention will give him another reason to wake.

Withdrawing the reasons for Kyle to wake should soon mean the whole family will be able to enjoy a good night's sleep. 

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