If you’re a parent to a 22-month-old, getting your toddler to stick to a sleep schedule can be a challenge. With so many changes happening in their world, it’s essential to establish a routine that aids their development and ensures they get enough rest. In this post, we will discuss the typical 22-month-old sleep schedule, address common sleep issues, and provide solutions to help.

The Ideal 22 Month Old Sleep Schedule

At 22 months old, your child likely requires about 11-14 hours of sleep every day, which includes nighttime sleep and one to two daytime naps. A regular schedule might look something like this:

• Wake up time: 7:00 AM
• Nap time: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
• Bedtime: 8:00 PM

Remember, these are only guidelines and every child is different. Adjust the schedule as needed to fit your child’s unique sleep needs and your family’s lifestyle.

Here’s a daily schedule that can help your 22-month-old sleep better at night.

Daily Schedule for a 22-Month-Old

Morning

• 7:00 AM: Wake Up Time
  • Wake up and engage in a morning routine (diaper change, dress up).
• 7:30 AM: Breakfast
  • Provide a nutritious breakfast and hydrate with water or milk.
• 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Active Play Time
  • Encourage active play (toddler-friendly exercises, dancing, etc.).

Mid-Morning

• 9:30 AM: Mid-Morning Snack
  • Offer a healthy snack (fruits, yogurt).
• 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Structured Activities
  • This could be learning activities, arts and crafts, or interactive games.

Afternoon

• 12:00 PM: Lunch
  • Serve a balanced lunch.
• 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM: Quiet Time
  • Read a book or watch an educational video.
• 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Nap Time
  • Encourage sleep in a calm, dark room.

Late Afternoon

• 3:00 PM: Afternoon Snack
  • Give a light, healthy snack.
• 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Free Play
  • Let the toddler explore their toys and environment independently.

Evening

• 5:00 PM: Dinner
  • Serve a balanced dinner, keeping in mind that it should be lighter than lunch.
• 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Family Time
  • Enjoy family interactions like playing games, storytelling, or strolling.
• 7:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Bedtime Routine
  • Start the bedtime routine (bath, pajamas, teeth brushing).
• 7:30 PM: Bedtime Story
  • Read a calming story or two.
• 8:00 PM: Bedtime
  • Ensure the environment is sleep-friendly (dark, quiet) and put your toddler to bed.

Common Sleep Challenges for 22-Month-Olds

At 22 months, your toddler might be experiencing various changes that could impact their sleep schedule. These may include:

• Sleep Regression: Around this age, some toddlers experience the 2-year sleep regression, a phase where they may resist bedtime, wake up during the night, or wake up too early.
• Separation Anxiety: Many toddlers experience a peak in separation anxiety around this age, which can lead to trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Transitioning from Two Naps to One: Around the age of 2, most toddlers transition from two daily naps to just one. This transition can cause temporary disruptions in their sleep schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions about the 22-Month-Old Sleep Schedule

Understanding your toddler’s sleep needs at 22 months can be a bit tricky. Let’s dive into some of the most commonly asked questions on the topic and provide some helpful answers.

Bedtime and Wake Time for a 22-Month-Old

What time should a 22-month-old go to bed?

Typically, a 22-month-old should go to bed between 7 and 8 PM. However, the exact time may vary depending on your family’s schedule and the child’s individual needs.

What time should a toddler wake up in the morning?

Most toddlers wake up between 6 and 8 AM. This can depend on when they went to bed the previous night and their unique sleep needs.

Is 9 PM too late for a toddler’s bedtime?

For most toddlers, a bedtime later than 9 PM might be too late and could lead to them not getting enough sleep. Aim for an earlier bedtime to ensure they get the recommended amount of sleep.

Understanding Naps for 22-Month-Olds

How long should a 22-month-old nap for?

A 22-month-old usually requires one nap a day, which typically lasts between 1 to 3 hours.

At what age do toddlers stop napping?

Most toddlers stop napping between the ages of 3 and 5. However, this varies from child to child. It’s important to look for signs of readiness to drop the nap, such as difficulty falling asleep at night.

What is the 2-3-4 sleep schedule?

The 2-3-4 sleep schedule refers to a pattern where a toddler wakes up, stays awake for 2 hours, naps, stays awake for 3 hours, naps again, then stays awake for 4 hours before bedtime. This schedule is typically more suitable for younger toddlers who are still taking two naps a day.

Dealing with Sleep Issues in 22-Month-Olds

Is there a sleep regression at 22 months?

Some toddlers might experience a sleep regression around 22 months. This can be due to developmental milestones, changes in routine, or increased separation anxiety. During this phase, toddlers may resist bedtime, wake up during the night, or wake up early.

Why is my 22-month-old waking up screaming?

There could be several reasons why your toddler is waking up screaming. It could be due to nightmares, night terrors, or discomfort from teething. If this is a regular occurrence, it’s worth discussing with your pediatrician to rule out any potential medical issues.

How long should you let a toddler cry it out?

The duration of letting a toddler cry it out can vary greatly depending on the child and the specific sleep training method you’re using. Some parents may choose to check on their toddler at increasing intervals, while others may opt for a more gradual approach.

Additional Tips for Toddler Sleep

What to do if a toddler wakes up early?

If your toddler wakes up earlier than desired, try shifting their bedtime later by 15-minute increments, ensure their room is dark and quiet in the early morning, and provide a comforting object for security. If early waking continues to be a problem, it may be worth seeking advice from a pediatric sleep consultant.

Why is my 22-month-old waking up at 4 AM?

Early morning waking can be due to various factors such as overtiredness, nap transitions, or external factors like noise or light. It could also be a sign of a sleep regression. Consider adjusting your child’s nap and bedtime schedule or improving their sleep environment.

How SleepBaby.org Can Help

If you’re struggling with your toddler’s sleep schedule, you’re not alone. SleepBaby.org is a fantastic resource for parents like you. The site offers comprehensive guides, strategies, and tips to handle various sleep challenges. Whether you’re dealing with sleep regressions or nap transitions, SleepBaby.org can provide the guidance you need to establish a healthy sleep schedule for your 22-month-old.

Conclusion

While managing your 22-month-old’s sleep schedule can be a challenge, remember that consistency is key. A consistent routine provides your child with a sense of security and helps regulate their internal body clock. And remember, if you ever need help, resources like SleepBaby.org are available to assist you on your parenting journey.