#asktheexpert i have twins and they are about to get 2 years old in one month. There sleep is so disturbing we don’t know what they are crying for. Every day they cry and its for 20 -30
Mins sometimes they don’t tell you what happen or anything. So what to do ?

Question

Accepted Answer

It sounds really challenging to manage twins with disrupted sleep, especially when they wake up crying for 20 to 30 minutes without explanation. This behavior is common in toddlers and could be due to several factors. Here are some possibilities and suggestions to help manage the situation:

### 1. **Night Terrors or Nightmares**:
   - **Night terrors** are more common in young children and usually occur during the first few hours of sleep. They can wake up crying and seem inconsolable, but they don’t usually remember it in the morning.
   - **Solution**: Try not to wake them up during these episodes, as it can make them more disoriented. Comfort them gently until they calm down on their own.

### 2. **Teething**:
   - At nearly two years old, they could be teething, which causes discomfort and can wake them up at night.
   - **Solution**: Check for signs of teething like drooling or swollen gums, and you can use teething toys or consult a pediatrician for suitable teething remedies.

### 3. **Separation Anxiety**:
   - Around this age, children can experience separation anxiety, especially at night. This can lead to crying or waking up looking for comfort.
   - **Solution**: Reassure them by being close when they cry. You could try a nightlight or soft music to create a more comforting environment.

### 4. **Hunger or Thirst**:
   - Sometimes, toddlers wake up because they’re hungry or thirsty, especially if they didn’t eat well during the day.
   - **Solution**: Ensure they have a balanced meal before bed, and keep a water bottle nearby in case they are thirsty at night.

### 5. **Overtiredness**:
   - If toddlers are too tired, they may struggle to settle into a deep sleep and wake up crying.
   - **Solution**: Try adjusting their nap times and making sure they’re not overtired before bed. A consistent bedtime routine is key to promoting better sleep.

### 6. **Overstimulation Before Bed**:
   - Too much screen time, exciting activities, or exposure to bright lights before bed can make it hard for them to wind down.
   - **Solution**: Establish a calming bedtime routine, such as reading a book, a warm bath, or listening to soft music, about 30 minutes before sleep.

### 7. **Check for Physical Discomfort**:
   - Ensure their clothes, diapers, or bedding are comfortable and not causing irritation. Sometimes small issues like diaper rashes or being too hot or cold can wake them up.

### 8. **Consult a Pediatrician**:
   - If their sleep issues persist, it might be helpful to consult a pediatrician to rule out medical causes, such as ear infections, digestive issues, or other discomforts that might be waking them up.

It's normal for toddlers to go through phases of disturbed sleep, but a consistent and soothing bedtime routine can help them settle better over time. Stay patient and offer comfort during these moments, and they will gradually outgrow this stage.

#asktheexpert i have twins and they are about to get 2 years old in one month. There sleep is so disturbing we don’t know what they are crying for. Every day they cry and its for 20 -30 Mins sometimes they don’t tell you what happen or anything. So what to do ?