I remember that moment when we thought we finally had sleep totally figured out. We were confident, feeling like we had a nice rhythm and balance when all of sudden the 18-month sleep regression hit us in full force.
If you’re facing sudden disruptions in your toddler’s sleep patterns, rest assured that you’re not alone. The 18-month sleep regression is a common developmental phase that many children experience. In this blog post, I am going to delve into why it happens, what you can expect during this challenging period, and provide you with my top tips to help you manage it like a pro.
Why Is There A Regression In Sleep Around 18 Months?
Sleep regressions are a normal part of a child’s development, and they often coincide with significant cognitive, physical, and emotional milestones. The 18-month sleep regression is no exception.
Around this age, toddlers are rapidly developing their language skills, motor abilities, and asserting their independence. These leaps in development can lead to disruptions in sleep due to increased curiosity, separation anxiety, and a growing sense of autonomy.
What to Expect During the 18 Month Sleep Regression
1. Night Wakings: Your toddler might start waking up more frequently during the night. This could be due to their active brain processing the day’s experiences or newfound fears and anxieties.
2. Resistance to Sleep: Getting your child to sleep might become more challenging. Naptime battles and bedtime protests can become common as your toddler’s desire to explore and assert their independence clashes with their need for rest.
3. Change in Sleep Patterns: Previously reliable sleep patterns might become irregular. This can be frustrating, especially if you had previously enjoyed a stretch of consistent sleep.
4. Changing Daytime Sleep Needs: If your toddler has not yet transitioned to one nap, they may need to. If they have already, you may find that you need to cap that afternoon nap a bit more to help preserve their overnight sleep. These shifts can further disrupt their sleep schedule.
My Top Tips To Manage The 18 Month Sleep Regression
1. Consistent Routine: Stick to a consistent daily routine. Predictability can offer comfort during times of change. Practice maintaining firm and loving boundaries during the day. Boundaries will help our toddlers feel safe and secure.
2. Create a Soothing Bedtime Routine: A calming pre-sleep routine signals to your child that it’s time to wind down. This could include activities like reading a book, dimming lights, and cuddling. Limit this routine to 20-30 minutes. Should you find it is getting longer and you are encountering stalling or boundary pushing, the use of a bedtime routine chart will be helpful to keep your family on track!
3. Positive Sleep Environment: As always, ensure your child’s sleep space is conducive to rest. A dark, quiet, and comfortable room can promote better sleep.
4. Offer Choices: Toddlers love to assert their independence. Offer them choices within reason, such as letting them choose a bedtime story or a stuffed animal to sleep with. This allows them to have some power in a situation where they feel that you have all the power!
5. Patience and Empathy: Understand that this phase is temporary. Respond to your child’s nighttime needs with patience and empathy, reinforcing your availability and support.
Bonus: Monitor Stimulants: Minimize sugary snacks and screen time close to bedtime. These can interfere with sleep.
Navigating the 18-month sleep regression can be challenging, but remember that it’s a phase that will eventually pass.
If you find yourself struggling to get back on track or need personalized guidance, I’m here to help.
Book a call with me, and together we can develop a tailored strategy to help your family sail through this regression with minimal disruptions.
Don’t let sleepless nights dominate your household – let’s work towards restful nights and happy days together.
Remember, the 18-month sleep regression is a natural part of your child’s growth journey. While it may test your patience and disrupt your sleep routine, it’s a sign that your toddler is developing and evolving.
By understanding the reasons behind the regression, having realistic expectations, and implementing effective strategies, you can help your family navigate this phase smoothly. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and there’s support available to ensure everyone gets the rest they need.
Rosalie Kassen (she/her)
Founder of Plume Sleep Solutions, Registered Nurse and Paediatric Sleep Consultant.
I work with families all over the world to bring a healthy sleep foundation and rest back into their homes.
Stop surviving the parenthood journey and start thriving!