10 Natural Ways to Help Your Toddler Sleep Better – Supplements and Foods to Try

As a parent, you want your toddler to get the restful sleep they need to grow and develop properly. But sometimes, despite your best efforts, it can be a challenge to get your little one to fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. If you’re looking for natural ways to help your toddler sleep better, here are a few supplements and foods to consider:

1. Melatonin: Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally produced by the body and is involved in regulating sleep-wake cycles. It’s available over-the-counter in various forms, including tablets, gummies, and liquid. Some studies have found that melatonin can be effective in helping children fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. However, it’s important to consult with your child’s healthcare provider before giving them melatonin, as it may not be appropriate for all children and may interact with other medications or underlying medical conditions.
2. Chamomile: Chamomile is a type of herb that has a calming effect and has been used for centuries to help people relax and sleep. You can give your toddler chamomile tea before bedtime or use a chamomile-based product, such as a lotion or aromatherapy oil, to help them relax.
3. Valerian root: Valerian root is another herb that has been used for centuries to promote sleep and relaxation. It’s available over-the-counter in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid. Some studies have found that valerian root can be effective in helping children fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. However, it’s important to consult with your child’s healthcare provider before giving them valerian root, as it may not be appropriate for all children and may interact with other medications or underlying medical conditions.
4. Magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that is involved in various bodily functions, including muscle function and sleep. Some studies have found that magnesium supplements can help improve sleep quality and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. You can give your toddler magnesium supplements in the form of a chewable tablet or powder. However, it’s important to consult with your child’s healthcare provider before giving them magnesium supplements, as too much magnesium can cause side effects.
5. L-theanine: L-theanine is an amino acid that is naturally found in tea leaves and has a calming effect. It’s available over-the-counter in various forms, including capsules and tablets. Some studies have found that L-theanine can help improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety. However, it’s important to consult with your child’s healthcare provider before giving them L-theanine, as it may not be appropriate for all children and may interact with other medications or underlying medical conditions.
6. Warm milk: Warm milk is a classic bedtime drink that has been used for centuries to help people sleep. Milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that is involved in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep. You can give your toddler a small glass of warm milk before bedtime to help them relax and sleep.
7. Banana: Bananas are a good source of potassium and magnesium, which can help improve sleep quality. They also contain tryptophan, which can help promote relaxation and sleep. You can give your toddler a banana as a snack before bedtime or add it to their bedtime routine in other ways, such as incorporating it into a bedtime smoothie or adding it to their oatmeal.
8. Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a good source of complex carbs, which can help increase the production of serotonin and improve sleep quality. You can give your toddler oatmeal as a bedtime snack or add it to their bedtime routine in other ways, such as incorporating it into a bedtime smoothie or topping it with sliced banana.
9. Lavender: Lavender is a type of herb that has a calming effect and has been used for centuries to promote sleep and relaxation. You can use lavender essential oil in a diffuser or add a few drops to your toddler’s bedtime bath to help them relax. You can also use a lavender-based product, such as a lotion or aromatherapy oil, to help them relax.
10. White noise: White noise is a type of background noise that can help block out other sounds and create a sense of calm. You can use a white noise machine or app to help your toddler sleep better.

It’s important to note that these natural supplements and foods may not be appropriate for all children and may interact with other medications or underlying medical conditions. It’s always a good idea to consult with your child’s healthcare provider before giving them any supplement or making significant changes to their diet.

In conclusion, there are several natural supplements and foods that can help a toddler sleep better. These include melatonin, chamomile, valerian root, magnesium, L-theanine, warm milk, banana, oatmeal, lavender, and white noise. It’s important to consult with your child’s healthcare provider before giving them any supplement or making significant changes to their diet, and to use caution and discretion when introducing these natural remedies. By incorporating some of these natural sleep aids into your toddler’s bedtime routine, you can help them get the restful sleep they need to grow and develop properly.