Instead of focusing solely on bedtime adjustments, monitor your child’s wake windows to ensure they are getting the right amount of sleep during the day. Check out this GUIDE for appropriate wake windows by age. The most common reason for early wake-ups is overtiredness, which often requires an earlier bedtime rather than a later one. It may seem counterintuitive, but preventing overtiredness and committing to an earlier bedtime can actually help encourage later wake-ups in the morning.
Keeping a consistent sleep schedule is key! Maintain predictable wake windows and follow an Eat, Play, Sleep routine for infants and early toddlers. This structure helps create consistency and predictability, which are essential for promoting better sleep.
Use blackout curtains to keep their room dark in the early morning.
Use a white noise machine to block out outside noise.
Ensure their room is at a comfortable temperature (between 68–72°F).
If your child wakes up early with minimal crying or is simply sitting in their crib or bed talking to themselves or rolling around, avoid rushing in immediately. Giving them time to self-settle can help them learn to fall back asleep on their own.
Regardless of your child’s age, do your best to avoid frequent snacking and maintain scheduled feeding times—whether it’s breastfeeding/bottle feeding or three main meals with planned snack times for toddlers. High-protein snacks can help keep your child feeling full longer, supporting more restful sleep and reducing unnecessary wake-ups.
Want even more expert sleep advice? Be sure to check out my free webinar, packed with sleep tips for newborns, infants, and toddlers!