Which sign might suggest that a toddler is experiencing sleep deprivation?

Frequent temper tantrums in toddlers can be a significant indicator of sleep deprivation. When children do not get enough sleep, they may struggle to regulate their emotions effectively, leading to increased irritability and behavioral issues such as tantrums. Inadequate sleep can affect a toddler's mood and ability to cope with frustration or changes in their environment, resulting in outbursts.

The other options do not align with common signs of sleep deprivation in toddlers. For instance, better behavior in the afternoon suggests that the child may be well-rested or that their energy levels are improving, which would not typically indicate sleep deprivation. Enhanced creativity in play can reflect a child's healthy imagination and is not directly associated with sleep quality. Sound sleeping through noise usually indicates good sleep habits or resilience to disturbances, rather than a sign of sleep deprivation. Therefore, frequent temper tantrums serve as a clear representation of the negative effects that insufficient sleep can have on a toddler's emotional regulation.