24 Month Old Sleep: Full On Toddler
You have a full blown toddler! With that though, you may be noticing that sleep is starting to look a little different. While many toddlers are sleeping through the night consistently, this age often brings new challenges like bedtime battles, stalling tactics, separation anxiety, and occasional night wakings.
As a sleep coach on IHM and a mom of two, I know this age VERY WELL. It’s my favorite age!
The good news? Most sleep disruptions at this age are developmental and can be improved with consistency and age-appropriate expectations.
What’s Really Going On?
Most 24-month-olds need:
- 11–12 hours of nighttime sleep
- 1–2 hours of daytime sleep
- 12–14 total hours of sleep per day
Every child is different, but maintaining a predictable sleep schedule is one of the best ways to support healthy sleep habits.
Common Sleep Challenges at 24 Months
1. Bedtime Resistance
Your toddler is becoming more independent and may test boundaries at bedtime.
You may hear:
- “One more book!”
- “I need water!”
- “I need a hug!”
While these requests are normal, creating a clear bedtime routine and setting loving boundaries can help reduce bedtime delays.
My favorite tip is getting ahead of their needs and meeting them before they can start their stalling tactics (but they’re so cute!).
2. Separation Anxiety
Even toddlers who previously slept well may experience a resurgence of separation anxiety around age two.
Signs include:
- Crying when parents leave the room
- Wanting extra comfort at bedtime
- Calling out during the night
A consistent bedtime routine, predictable responses, and role playing can help your child feel secure.
3. Nap Resistance
Many 24 month olds begin resisting naps, even though they still need them.
Parents often assume it’s time to drop the nap, but most children benefit from a daytime nap until at least age 3.
Before eliminating naps, consider:
- Whether bedtime is too late
- Whether your child is overtired
- Whether schedule adjustments are needed
4. Night Wakings
Occasional night wakings are still normal at this age.
Common causes include:
- Overtiredness
- Illness
- Teething
- Developmental milestones
- Changes in routine
If night wakings become frequent, reviewing sleep schedules and bedtime routines can help identify the cause.
Signs Your 24 Month Old Is Overtired
An overtired toddler doesn’t always look sleepy.
Watch for:
- Increased tantrums
- Hyperactivity before bed
- Early morning waking
- Fighting naps
- Taking longer than 30 minutes to fall asleep
Sometimes improving sleep means moving bedtime earlier rather than later.
Sleep Tips for a 24 Month Old
- Keep a Consistent Schedule
- Create a Predictable Bedtime Routine
- Limit Screen Time Before Bed
- Encourage Independent Sleep Skills
When Should You Seek Help?
If your 24 month old is:
- Waking multiple times every night
- Taking longer than an hour to fall asleep
- Refusing naps consistently
- Waking very early every morning
- Experiencing significant sleep disruptions that affect family life
It may be helpful to speak with a pediatrician or sleep consultant for personalized support.
The I Help Moms Approach
At 24 months old, sleep is often less about sleep regressions and more about development, independence, and boundaries. At IHM we bring in our expertise and pair it with YOUR parenting philosophy as well as YOUR CHILD’S temperament/personality.
Remember that bedtime struggles at age two are common, but they don’t have to become permanent habits.
If you want a personalized approach to help you manage this time, let’s schedule a call and get your family rested.
https://ihelpmoms.com/consultants/consultant/458/jamie-ortiz
