Toddler Sleep, Taylor’s Version

Wondering what Taylor Swift has to do with your Toddler’s Bedtime?

Sleepless nights and toddler tantrums – it's a tough stage, but you're not alone in this parenting journey. It’s no secret that I’ve been a Taylor Swift fan since my middle school era. And just like Taylor Swift's lyrics speak to the heart, we've got some tips to help you create sweet lullabies in your child's dreams. 

"Shake It Off" - Embrace a Consistent Bedtime Routine Taylor reminds us to "shake off" the day's worries, and a consistent bedtime routine can help with that. Create a soothing routine with calming activities like reading a bedtime story or singing a lullaby. My biggest tip? Make sure the things you include in the bedtime routine are things you actually enjoy. Don’t like story time because your toddler runs away and you’re breaking a sweat just to keep them on your lap? Don’t worry about it! The bedtime routine should include things you find fun.

"Blank Space" - Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment Make your little one’s room a "blank space" for sweet dreams. Ensure a comfortable and cozy sleep environment, complete with a dim nightlight (opt for red-hues) and a snuggly blanket. If your tot is NOT in a crib, this tip is key. The last thing you need at the end of a long day is for your little one to get out of bed to access all the toys you spent all evening cleaning up. Keep things slightly boring.

"Begin Again" - Stay Calm During Night Wakings Night wakings can be challenging, but remember, every night is a chance to "begin again." Approach night wakings with patience and a calm demeanor. Easier said than done, I know. But when your toddler comes into your room at 4 a.m., if they’re getting a strong reaction from you, they will continue to seek that attention out. Why? Because their brains are registering the attention as attention. It doesn’t matter if it’s negative or positive.

"Love Story" - Provide Love and Reassurance Like Taylor's epic love stories, your child needs to feel loved. If they’re waking up in the middle of the night and need your support, offer comfort and reassurance to them. I’m not saying you must give in to their night wakings forever and suffer. But I am saying you shouldn’t ignore your child. Instead, set loving boundaries if needed.

"The Man" - Share Equal Parenting Responsibilities Let’s be just like Leo, mmkay? Parenting is a shared responsibility, regardless of who is working outside of the home. When my husband stayed home with my first-born and I worked full time, you better believe I was still waking up to help with the night feeds. Share nighttime duties with your partner to avoid exhaustion. And if they won’t get on board, have a serious sit-down with them to express how it’s taking a toll on your mental health to be the only one with constantly disrupted sleep.

"Fearless" - Encourage Courageous Sleep Independence Encourage your child to be "fearless" when it comes to sleep independence. While I’m not an advocate for forcing something onto your child if they aren’t ready, you can slowly work on independence. Gradually transition to a separate bed if needed, while ensuring they feel safe and secure. Or introduce them to their room, and get them excited about staying in their space.

"All Too Well" (10-minute Version, of course) - Deal with Sleep Regressions While we all may want to F*ck the Sleepless Nights, just like Taylor's song "All Too Well" reminisces, sleep regressions are a phase that will pass. Stay patient and offer extra comfort during these times.

"Clean" - Keep Their Sleep Space Tidy A "clean" sleep environment can promote better sleep quality. I mean, there’s a reason we love walking into a hotel room that’s just been tended to, right? There’s just something vibey about a clean space that makes you want to slip between the sheets and melt into the bed. Same for your kiddos. Keep their sleep space tidy and clutter-free for a peaceful slumber.

"Enchanted" - Foster Positive Sleep Associations Create "enchanted" sleep associations like a favorite stuffed animal or a soothing bedtime song to make bedtime a magical experience. Bedtime is often the longest separation from parents (even when they’re right next to us), and having sleep associations can make sleep something enjoyable. Soon, your child’s nights will be sparkling when they look forward to sleep.

"Long Live" - Cherish the Sweet Moments Taylor's "Long Live" encourages us to cherish moments. Remember, these sleepless nights won't last forever, so embrace the bedtime snuggles and lullabies. I promise, your child is having the time of their life sleeping right next to you. And while you don’t have to stay in that situation if it’s no longer working for you, knowing that you’re creating foundational memories may help you a bit.

Your toddler is at a stage in life where so much impacts their development and the years that are ahead. If they struggle with sleep, offering support and encouragement can help turn their midnight woes into evenings that actually shimmer. 

Remember, you never have to suck it up and wait it out if you’re not happy with your current sleep sitch. You can always make changes.

And I hope these tips give you a few ideas of where to start.