Why Does Your Toddler Wake Up Crying? Causes & Solutions

Hearing your toddler wake up crying can be tough. One minute, they’re asleep; the next, they’re upset and calling for you. Why does my toddler wake up crying every night or after naps? If you’re asking this, you’re not alone. I’ve been there—watching the baby monitor, wondering what went wrong. The truth is that toddlers cry when they wake up for many reasons—tiredness, bad dreams, teething, or just needing comfort. But don’t worry! This guide will explain why it happens and how to help your little one sleep better. Let’s get started!

Common Reasons Why Toddlers Wake Up Crying

Overtiredness or Poor Sleep Schedule

An overtired toddler is a cranky toddler. It sounds strange, but skipping naps or staying up too late makes it harder for them to sleep. When toddlers get too tired, their bodies release stress hormones. This can cause restless sleep and sudden wake-ups with tears.

Want to know if your toddler is overtired? Look for signs like fussiness, rubbing their eyes, or getting extra hyper before bed. That last-minute energy boost isn’t a sign they’re not tired—it’s exhaustion kicking in! A steady sleep routine with naps and an early bedtime can help them sleep better.

Hunger or Growth Spurts

Toddlers grow fast, and sometimes their little bellies can’t keep up. If your child wakes up crying, hunger could be the reason. Growth spurts make them hungrier, so they may need extra food to sleep through the night.

To prevent this, make sure they eat enough during the day. Protein and healthy fats help keep them full longer. A bedtime snack, like yogurt or a banana, can also stop those middle-of-the-night hunger cries.

Nightmares and Night Terrors

Bad dreams can wake toddlers up in tears. Nightmares happen in the night’s second half, and kids usually remember them. A little comfort can help them settle back to sleep.

Night terrors are different. Your toddler might scream, thrash, or seem awake but not recognise you. These episodes happen in deep sleep, and they won’t remember them. They’re scary to watch, but they’re harmless. A calming bedtime routine and good sleep habits can help reduce them.

Sleep Regression Phases

When you think your toddler’s sleep is improving, a sleep regression hits. These phases, often around 18 months and 2 years, cause more night wakings. They happen because of big developmental changes—like learning new words or skills.

The good news? Sleep regressions don’t last forever. Stick to a routine, offer comfort without new habits (like rocking them to sleep), and stay patient. They’ll get back on track soon!

Separation Anxiety

Toddlers love being close to you, especially at night. If your little one wakes up crying and calling for you, separation anxiety might be the cause. This is common around 18 months to 2 years. They realise you can leave but don’t fully understand that you’ll always return.

The key is to reassure them without overdoing it. A bedtime routine with extra cuddles, a favourite stuffed animal, or a nightlight can help. This way, they feel safe without needing you whenever they wake up.

Teething or Physical Discomfort

Teething, illness, or even being too hot or cold can wake a toddler. If your child cries at night and seems uncomfortable, check for teething signs like drooling and chewing. A mild fever or tummy troubles could also be the cause.

A cool teething toy, comfy pyjamas, and the right room temperature can help. Extra comfort (or doctor-approved pain relief) might be needed if they’re in pain. Keeping them cozy can lead to better sleep for everyone!

Why Does My Toddler Wake Up Crying from Naps?

Nap time is supposed to be a break for you and your little one, but what if they wake up crying? It’s frustrating—one minute they’re snoozing, the next they’re in tears. Let’s look at some common reasons and how to fix them.

Short Nap Syndrome

Ever notice your toddler waking up after just 30–45 minutes, cranky and still tired? That’s short nap syndrome. It happens when they don’t connect sleep cycles. Instead of settling into deep sleep, they wake up too soon and feel groggy.

The fix? Try a solid pre-nap routine. A quiet, dark room and calming activities before nap time can help. If they wake up early, give them a few minutes to see if they’ll fall asleep independently.

Sleep Cycle Transitions

Babies and toddlers move through sleep cycles just like adults. But unlike us, they often struggle with the transition between light and deep sleep. If your toddler wakes up crying mid-nap, they might not know how to fall back asleep.

Teaching self-soothing is key. A favourite blanket or stuffed animal can help them feel secure. You can gently pat their back or use white noise to ease the transition between sleep cycles.

Discomfort or Sleep Environment Issues

Sometimes, it’s not about sleep cycles—it’s about the nap setup. Too much noise, a room that’s too hot or cold, or bright sunlight can cut naps short. Even an uncomfortable diaper or tight clothing can be the culprit.

Make sure their sleep space is cozy. A cool, dark room with soft bedding and comfy clothes can make a big difference. A white noise machine or a fan can help drown it out if outside noise is an issue.

Solutions for Extending Nap Duration and Reducing Crying

Want longer, happier naps? Try these tricks:

Stick to a consistent nap schedule. Overtired toddlers nap poorly.

Wind down before naps with a book or lullaby.

Make their sleep space dark and quiet.

If they wake up too soon, wait a few minutes before rushing in. Sometimes, they need a little time to settle back down.

Why Does My Toddler Wake Up Crying Every Night?

There’s nothing quite like that middle-of-the-night wake-up call—your toddler crying out and you stumbling half-asleep to their room. If this happens night after night, you might wonder: Why does my toddler wake up crying every night? Is something wrong? Are they just being difficult? I’ve been there—watching the baby monitor, hoping they’ll settle back down, only to sit beside their crib, whispering, “Shh, it’s okay.” However, night is common, and understanding why it happens is the first step to finding a solution.

Understanding Recurring Night Wakings: When to Be Concerned

Waking up at night is normal for toddlers. Like adults, they go through sleep cycles, and sometimes, they wake up. The difference? Many toddlers don’t know how to put themselves back to sleep, so they cry for comfort.

But when should you worry? If your toddler wakes up crying occasionally, it’s likely a phase. However, if it happens every night and they seem extremely upset, there might be an underlying issue. Keep an eye out for these red flags:

Excessive crying that’s hard to soothe

Signs of pain (like pulling at their ears or clutching their stomach)

Frequent night-waking paired with daytime fussiness

Snoring, gasping, or trouble breathing while sleeping

Trust your gut and check in with your pediatrician if anything feels off. But most of the time, night is are just a part of toddlerhood.

Behavioural Patterns vs. Medical Concerns: Habit or Health Issue?

Once you rule out medical causes, it’s time to look at habits. Sometimes, night-waking become a learned behaviour. If your toddler is used to getting rocked, nursed, or cuddled back to sleep, they might cry because they expect it every time they wake up.

On the other hand, medical issues like acid reflux, allergies, or sleep apnea can also cause frequent wake-ups. How do you tell the difference? Look for patterns:

If your toddler cries briefly and settles with reassurance, it’s likely a habit.

If they seem uncomfortable, arch their back, or cry even when held, discomfort might be the culprit.

If they snore loudly or stop breathing briefly, it’s worth discussing with a doctor.

How to Gently Encourage Self-Soothing

If your toddler wakes up crying every night, the goal is to help them learn to fall back asleep on their own. But that doesn’t mean leaving them to cry endlessly. Instead, try these gentle strategies:

Establish a solid bedtime routine – A predictable routine signals sleep time. A warm bath, a short story, and a cuddle before bed can work wonders.

Create a comforting sleep environment – Ensure their room is dark, quiet, and cool. A white noise machine can block out sudden noises that might wake them.

Use a lovey or comfort object—If they’re old enough, a favourite stuffed animal or blanket can help them feel safe.

Pause before rushing in – Give them a chance to settle. If they cry, wait a minute before responding to see if they can soothe themselves.

Offer reassurance without creating new habits – Keep it brief if you need to comfort them. A quick back rub or a soft “You’re okay, sweetie” can be enough.

Toddler sleep struggles are tough, but they won’t last forever. Those midnight wake-ups will become a thing of the past with patience and consistency. And one day, you might even miss those sleepy snuggles—well, maybe just a little!

How to Help Your Toddler Sleep Better and Wake Up Happier

If your toddler’s sleep feels like a rollercoaster—one night they’re snoozing peacefully, the next they’re crying at 2 a.m.—you’re not alone. Toddler sleep can be unpredictable, but there are ways to help them rest better and wake up happy. Let’s talk about what works.

Establishing a Consistent Sleep Routine

Toddlers thrive on routine. If bedtime is all over the place, their little bodies don’t know when to wind down. That’s why a predictable sleep schedule is a game-changer.

A good routine doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as:

A warm bath (helps relax their body)

A bedtime story (signals that sleep is coming)

A cuddle and a goodnight phrase (“I love you, sleep tight!”)

Their brain starts recognising the cues when bedtime looks the same every night. And guess what? That makes falling—and staying—asleep much easier.

Creating a Comfortable Sleep Environment

Have you ever woken up because your pillow wasn’t right or the room was too hot? Toddlers feel that way, too! Their sleep setup can make or break a good night’s rest.

Here’s what helps:

Cool, dark, and quiet room – A white noise machine can block out sounds. Blackout curtains keep the room dark.

Comfortable pyjamas and bedding – Too hot or too cold? Sleep gets disrupted. Dress them in breathable fabrics.

A familiar comfort object – A favourite stuffed animal or blanket can be soothing.

When their sleep space feels safe and cozy, they’re more likely to stay asleep (and not call for you at midnight).

Balancing Daytime Activity and Sleep Needs

A tired toddler sleeps better—but an overtired toddler? That’s a different story. Night wakings can worsen if they’re not getting the right balance of activity and rest.

Try this:

Plenty of movement during the day – Running, jumping, outdoor play—all great for burning energy.

Not too close to bedtime – Avoid wild play an hour before bed. Swap it for puzzles, books, or quiet activities.

Consistent naps – Skipped or late naps make bedtime harder. Stick to a routine so they’re not overtired.

The sweet spot? Tired enough to sleep well but not too exhausted to the point of restless wake-ups.

Addressing Night Wakings with a Gentle Approach

So, your toddler still wakes up crying—now what? The key is helping them settle back to sleep without starting habits you’ll regret (like rocking them for an hour every night).

Here’s what to do:

Pause before rushing in – Give them a moment to resettle. Sometimes, they need a few seconds.

Offer brief reassurance – A soft “You’re okay, sweetheart” from the doorway can be enough.

Use a consistent response. If they wake up often, keep your approach the same: a quick back rub, a calming whisper, and then leave.

FAQs

Why does my toddler wake up screaming suddenly?

Night terrors, for example, happen during deep sleep, and your child might seem awake but be completely unaware of what’s happening. Unlike nightmares, they won’t remember them the next day. If this is the case, don’t wake them up—keep them safe until it passes.

Other culprits? Teething pain, gas, or even a loud noise that startled them. If it’s a one-off, it’s likely nothing to worry about. But if it keeps happening, try tracking their sleep patterns to spot a trend.

Is it normal for a toddler to cry in their sleep?

Yes! It’s surprisingly common and usually nothing to worry about. Sometimes, toddlers cry in their sleep because they’re transitioning between sleep cycles or having a dream. They might whimper for a few seconds and then settle on their own.

If the crying lasts longer or happens frequently, consider factors like hunger, teething, or a recent change in their routine. And if they’re crying but still asleep? Let them be! Waking them could make it worse. Give it a minute—sometimes, they self-soothe and drift back into deeper sleep.

Should I let my toddler cry it out at night?

This is one of the biggest parenting debates. Honestly, It depends on your child and what works for your family.

Some parents swear by the cry-it-out method (CIO), in which they let their toddler self-soothe without immediate intervention. Others prefer a gentler approach, offering comfort while encouraging independent sleep.

The key? Finding a balance. If your toddler is crying out of habit rather than need, giving them a moment to settle before rushing in can help. But if they seem distressed, it’s okay to offer reassurance. Trust your instincts—you know your child best!

When should I talk to a doctor about sleep issues?

Most toddler sleep troubles are just a phase. But sometimes, there’s an underlying issue that needs attention. Talk to your pediatrician if you notice any of the following:

Frequent, intense night-wakings that don’t improve with routine changes.

Loud snoring, gasping, or trouble breathing during sleep (could indicate sleep apnea).

Severe separation anxiety that disrupts sleep for weeks.

Signs of pain include clutching their stomach, tugging at their ears, or arching their back.

Don’t hesitate to ask if your gut tells you something is off. Sleep struggles are hard, but you don’t have to figure it out alone!

Conclusion

Toddler sleep struggles? You’re not alone. If your little one keeps waking up crying, know this—it’s normal, it’s temporary, and it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.

Some nights, you’ll feel like a detective trying to crack the case of the midnight meltdown. Other nights, you’ll be half-asleep, whispering, “Shhh, just go back to sleep, please!”—because, let’s be real, exhaustion is real.

But here’s the good news: with time, patience, and a solid sleep routine, those night wakings will happen less and less. Your toddler will learn to sleep through the night, and one day, you’ll wake up before they do and wonder if you got a full night’s rest. (Yes, it will happen!)

In the meantime, trust your instincts. Every child is different, and what works for one might not work for another. So experiment, adapt, and most importantly—give yourself grace. You’re doing an amazing job.

Do you have any sleep struggles or go-to tricks that worked for you? Please share them in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!