2 year old unhappy on waking

[Toystory123]

Hi, can anyone help with my DC (2) sleep? They have one hour nap at nursery and go to bed around 8pm but have been waking between 5:30-6. It’s changed since the clocks have gone back so used to go to sleep 9pm and wake 6:30ish. They have never needed a ton of sleep unfortunately. However, when upon waking more often than not they’re upset and spend the next 45minutes - an hour on and off upset/grumping. Nursery have said they’re like this too after their nap. I’m unsure how to break the cycle and feel like they’re not getting enough sleep otherwise wouldn’t be upset? Their communication and therefore understanding is delayed slightly so I don’t think they’d understand a gro clock but if there’s anything that’s worked for you in a similar situation? Thanks

I would think it's something they'll grow out of in time. Loads of kids are upset when waking, they're groggy and confused.

I'd suggest waking slightly earlier so there is time for a longer and more gradual transition between asleep and awake. Don't ask them to do anything too soon after waking, give them a drink and a cuddle, ease into the day.

I wish I knew, my 15 month old is a terrible sleeper, still waking 3 times a night and a few times in the evening. He will barely open his eyes and be whinging and crying before properly waking, and is so grumpy after waking from a nap. We're just riding it out but it's been a long time, not sure what to do so watching for more useful replies!

I think some kids are just like this. I still am at 38! DS is 6 and he is absolutely raging when he wakes up. Every single morning! We just have a routine where we wake him up and then we get ready around him to give him time to come round. 10 minutes later he's like a different kid! I just assumed it was his personality 🤷‍♀️

Yes this is the right approach I think.

Waking is a huge shock to some, depends how deep you sleep, how vividly you dream etc. Some people take ages to come back into their body.

Hunger plays a part too for some people.

Waking up is genuinely scary for some, and loads of people are disoriented and confused.