Top 9 Reasons Why Your Toddler Wakes Up Crying at Night
Sleep disruptions in toddlers are a common challenge for parents. You finally get your child to bed, hoping for a full night of rest, only to be woken up by sudden, unexplained crying.
If you’ve been wondering, “Why does my toddler wake up crying at night?” – you’re not alone. This article will explore the top reasons why toddlers wake up crying, offer insights into the causes, and provide actionable tips to help improve their sleep (and yours).
1. Nightmares and Night Terrors
One of the most common reasons toddlers wake up crying is due to nightmares or night terrors. Nightmares are bad dreams that occur during REM (dreaming) sleep and can cause a child to wake up frightened and upset.
Night terrors, on the other hand, occur during non-REM sleep and are more intense. A toddler experiencing a night terror might cry, scream, shake, or even thrash around while appearing awake – but they won’t usually remember it the next day.
Why does my toddler wake up crying and shaking?
This is often linked to night terrors. It can be alarming for parents, but these episodes are generally harmless and your child will likely outgrow them.
What can help?
Maintain a calming bedtime routine, avoid overtiredness, and try to prevent stimulation before bed.
2. Separation Anxiety
Many toddlers go through a phase of separation anxiety, especially between 18 months and 3 years of age. This means they may wake up and cry simply because they realize you’re not there.
Why does my toddler wake up crying every night?
If your toddler is particularly attached to you or used to co-sleeping, the sudden awareness of your absence in the middle of the night can trigger distress.
Tips:
- Try leaving a comfort object, like a soft toy or a shirt with your scent.
- Offer consistent reassurance and don’t sneak away when they fall asleep.
3. Discomfort from Illness or Pain
Sometimes, crying at night is your toddler’s way of saying something is wrong physically. Teething, ear infections, tummy troubles, or even fevers can disrupt sleep and cause pain.
Why does my toddler wake up crying uncontrollably?
Sudden, intense crying can signal discomfort from a minor illness or teething pain.
Check for signs of illness:
- Tugging at the ears (possible ear infection)
- Drooling and swollen gums (teething)
- Clutching their stomach (digestive discomfort)
Consult your pediatrician if symptoms persist.
4. Overtiredness or Poor Sleep Routine
An overtired toddler can actually have a harder time falling and staying asleep. Skipping naps or having an irregular bedtime can lead to overstimulation.
Why does my toddler wake up crying then goes back to sleep?
This may indicate they’re not getting into a deep sleep cycle and are waking briefly due to exhaustion.
Fix it with:
- A predictable sleep schedule
- A calming, screen-free wind-down routine
- Age-appropriate nap times
5. Sleep Regression
Sleep regressions are developmental phases where a child temporarily goes backward in their sleep habits. These often happen at 18 months, 2 years, or after major milestones like potty training or starting daycare.
Why does my toddler wake up crying at the same time every night?
Sleep regressions can cause consistent wakeups – often due to brain development, growing awareness, or increased mobility.
Stay consistent with routines, even if sleep is disrupted for a few weeks.
6. Hunger or Thirst
Toddlers are busy, active, and growing – and sometimes they go to bed without enough food or hydration to get them through the night.
Why does my toddler wake up crying in the middle of the night?
A grumbly tummy could be the culprit. This is especially true for picky eaters or toddlers who skip dinner.
Prevent hunger-induced crying:
- Offer a healthy bedtime snack (like a banana or yogurt)
- Ensure they stay hydrated throughout the day
7. Sleep Environment Disruptions
Environmental factors such as light, noise, temperature, or even a sudden blackout can startle a toddler awake.
Why does my toddler wake up crying and hitting?
If they’re startled or overstimulated by an abrupt environmental change, they may express frustration through hitting or other sudden actions.
Create a cozy, quiet sleep space:
- Use blackout curtains
- Try white noise
- Ensure the room is not too hot or too cold
8. Digestive Issues or Food Sensitivities
Some toddlers may wake up with digestive discomfort from food sensitivities, constipation, or gas.
Why does my toddler wake up crying from naps?
Short daytime naps interrupted by discomfort could be due to something they ate earlier, or because of an upset tummy.
What can help:
- Monitor foods and snacks
- Avoid heavy meals close to nap or bedtime
- Include fiber-rich foods and water for healthy digestion
9. Emotional Stress or Overstimulation
Even at a young age, toddlers experience emotions they can’t yet process. A stressful day, a fight at daycare, or overstimulation from screens or travel can cause anxiety at bedtime.
Why does my toddler wake up crying at night?
Unprocessed emotions can resurface during sleep. Nighttime crying might be your toddler’s way of expressing their stress.
Help them wind down:
- Talk through the day before bed
- Use relaxation techniques (a short story, music, or a calming bath)
- Avoid screens at least 1 hour before bedtime
Final Thoughts: When to Seek Help
It’s perfectly normal for toddlers to wake up crying occasionally, but if your child consistently wakes up crying uncontrollably, shaking, or showing signs of distress, talk to your pediatrician. There could be underlying medical or emotional factors that need to be addressed.
By understanding these reasons, you can better address your child’s needs and create a soothing sleep environment. Remember, your toddler’s nighttime tears are a form of communication – and with patience, routine, and care, better sleep will follow for the whole family.
FAQs
Q: Why does my toddler wake up crying every night?
A: Frequent nighttime crying may be due to separation anxiety, nightmares, hunger, or inconsistent sleep routines.
Q: Why does my toddler wake up crying and shaking?
A: This may indicate a night terror, a type of sleep disturbance common in toddlers, or possible fever/discomfort.
Q: Why does my toddler wake up crying from naps?
A: Short nap cycles, discomfort, or waking in a new environment can cause post-nap crying.
Q: Why does my toddler wake up crying and hitting?
A: Some toddlers express frustration physically when startled awake or dealing with emotional overload.
Related Articles:
What is the Most Common Cause of Hearing Loss in Children
