A toddler alarm clock is a redesigned take on the old classic with little ones in mind. These are also called OK-to-Wake clocks and are typically number-free clocks that rely on lights, sounds, images and characters to show pre-readers when it’s time to get out of bed. Sometimes toddler alarm clocks combine all four methods to drive the point home. No matter how you dice it, toddlers love sensory activation and quickly learn better sleep routines.
How do toddler alarm clocks work?
If you’re moving onto toddler beds and kids’ mattresses, it’s definitely time to consider a toddler clock. It’s best to choose the model you think your little one will respond to best, and then start slowly by easing them into using the clock. Spend time explaining how it works, why you’re using it and how mature they’ll be for giving it a try.
Try explaining, “If you wake up before the light on your new clock goes on, stay in bed a while longer or grabbed a stuffed animal till it’s wake-up time.”
Easing the transition should also help. If your goal is to keep your toddler in bed till 6:45 but they’re always up at 5, try setting the first round to 5:30 in the morning. A week or two later you can push it back to 5:45, and so on. It may take time, but a month or two later you’ll be swimming in zzz’s and your toddler will feel like a success story. And don’t feel defeated if you deal with the occasional toddler sleep regression—it’s normal.
The best toddler alarm clock options
No matter what your budget or style is, there’s a brilliant toddler alarm clock that’s right for your little one. You can thank us later for improving their sleep routine (and yours).
Best toddler alarm clock overall
LittleHippo Mella Ready to Rise Clock
Parents can’t get enough of the fun-to-use LittleHippo Ready to Rise alarm clock for toddlers. With over 17,000 ratings and a nearly perfect 4.5-star average, it’s Amazon’s bestselling option and a hit with kids. The Mella model uses colors and smiley-face expressions to teach your child when it’s time for bed and when it’s okay to wake up.
Kids learn to stay in bed longer, giving you more sleep—and they love the array of gentle LED lights. Choose from four colors and know that the lights are adjustable. This model also has a nap timer, digital display and night lights.
Pros:
- Uses colors and smiley faces to signal to children
- Adjustable LED lights that signal wake-up time
- Easy to use
- Also has numerical time displays that promise this clock will be relevant when they’re big, too
- Over 17,000 Amazon ratings make it a bestseller
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than other models on the market, though it offers more clock features than most
- No authentic sunrise duplication
