11/15/2022
What is a toddler clock and why use one?
⭐️ Toddler clocks help to visually teach your child when it’s time for sleep and when it’s time to wake.
⭐️ They're helpful in improving early wakings, bedtime battles and middle of the night wakings.
When should I introduce one?
⭐️ 2 years of age or older is a good time to start using a toddler clock.
⭐️ If you feel like your 18-24 month old would understand and benefit from it, there's no harm in starting earlier. It may just take them a bit more time to grasp the concept.
How can I successfully introduce a toddler clock?
⭐️ Involve them in the process of choosing and setting up their clock. Explain how it works and let them choose which colour means it’s ‘okay to wake’.
⭐️ Explain what to do if the clock doesn’t say it’s “okay to wake” - lie still, let your body rest, try to fall back to sleep, mom or dad will come and get you as soon as the clock says it’s okay to wake.
⭐️ Make it part of their bedtime routine. It takes time for toddlers to buy into the concept, so really talk it up and use it consistently each day.
⭐️ Don’t make them wait too long for the reward of seeing the clock change - they will lose patience. If you want to start teaching your toddler to wake up later than they are, start with just 10 minutes and gradually increase the waiting time every few days.