Parenting with two little ones under three can be a challenge, and when it comes to sleep, finding the right rhythm can feel like threading a needle in the dark. The dynamics shift, and bedtime becomes a strategic dance of meeting the needs of both your newborn and your energetic toddler. Don't worry, though; we've compiled our most practical tips to help you navigate this delicate balance.
- Embrace naps in the carrier! Whether you’re out and about or at home, the carrier is going to be your best friend.
- Play white noise from a quality sound machine to help block out any sibling’s noise that might disrupt their sleep.
- Have a job for your toddler as a part of your newborns pre-sleep ritual (bathing, turning the white noise on, lights off, or shushing). Getting them into this rhythm right from the beginning helps them feel involved and important and meltdowns are much less likely.
- If your newborn needs some extra help to fall asleep or resettle make sure you have a few pre-packed activity boxes ready to go for your toddler and quickly pull one out when you need to keep them quiet. Sitting them safely just outside the door, or in a safe play area. Wireless headphones and children’s audio books are magic for keeping a toddler calm and quiet
- Follow our nap routines for both kids. They’re designed so that your newborn's longest nap of the day will fall around the same time as your toddler's nap so you’ll get a much needed break in the middle of the day!
- Stagger bedtimes. Try to aim for your youngest to be asleep around 15-30 minutes before your toddlers bedtime, even if this means your toddler goes to bed a little later than usual. Making sure you have this time to spend 1:1 with your toddler every night is a game changer. It means they’ll look forward to bedtime every day rather than fight it.
👉 Have a little one on the way? Grab our Newborn Sleep Guide (0-14 weeks) and set great sleep foundations from the very beginning.
“Our 6 week old went from waking every 1.5-2 hours at night, to sleeping 7pm-7am with only 1-2 feeds.” Kiara, W
“Every new parent needs this guide, not only will your baby be so much happier following the routines, they will sleep well and you will finally get some of your sanity back.” Tara, G
