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Sleep regressions in toddlers are often associated with several developmental changes happening at once. Around 18 months, toddlers experience important milestones that may temporarily disrupt their sleep habits. These may include:
As toddlers start to develop their vocabulary, they may experience difficulty winding down or become restless as they process new sounds, words, and meanings.
At this stage, molars may start coming in, causing discomfort and pain. The aching can lead to more frequent waking during the night.
Your toddler may begin to show signs of wanting more autonomy. This could manifest as resistance to bedtime, unwillingness to go to sleep, or frequent wake-ups due to separation anxiety.
These developmental milestones are important for your child’s growth, but they can also make it harder to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. However, understanding why sleep regressions happen can help you approach the situation with more empathy and patience.
Fortunately, there are many strategies you can implement to manage an 18-month-old sleep regression and keep your toddler’s sleep routine on track. Below are some expert-recommended tips:
Consistency is key when it comes to managing sleep regressions. Even though it may be tempting to give in to your toddler’s resistance to bedtime, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule will provide them with a sense of security. Stick to your usual bedtime, naps, and other routines as much as possible. Establishing a predictable sleep environment reassures your child, helping them recognize when it’s time to sleep.
For example, you might consider maintaining a consistent “wind-down” time at home each evening. If you’re in New York and trying to adjust to daylight saving time or seasonal changes, remember that consistency will help your child adapt.
During sleep regressions, your toddler may feel more anxious or unsettled. Offering comfort through gentle words, hugs, or cuddles can ease their fears, but avoid introducing new sleep associations, such as rocking them to sleep or allowing them to sleep in your bed. The goal is to reassure them without forming habits that could further disrupt their sleep.
If you’re in the New York area, you might find it helpful to use soothing white noise machines or calming scents, such as lavender, to help create a peaceful environment in your child’s nursery.
In the face of sleep regression, adjusting nap times might be necessary. If your toddler is resisting naps or their naps are shorter than usual, try shifting nap times by 15-30 minutes earlier or later to find what works best. At the same time, ensure that their sleep environment is quiet, dark, and free from distractions. Consider using blackout curtains or a sleep mask to block out excessive daylight or noise from outside.
For parents in New York, the city’s hustle and bustle can be noisy, so incorporating a white noise machine might help your child stay asleep even in the middle of a busy environment.
A calming bedtime routine is essential for toddlers during sleep regressions. Try incorporating activities that signal it’s time to wind down. Some calming activities to include in your routine are:
Each of these activities will create a calming ritual that lets your toddler know it’s time for sleep. Over time, these cues will help them relax and better manage any anxiety caused by developmental changes.
Sleep regressions are temporary, and while they may feel frustrating, they usually last a few weeks. Be patient and trust that your toddler’s sleep schedule will eventually return to normal. Avoid making drastic changes or decisions in the middle of a regression, as this could set back progress.
Remember that while your child might be experiencing sleep difficulties now, these phases are often short-lived in the broader picture of their growth and development.
Although sleep regressions are typically temporary, some children may experience more severe or prolonged sleep disturbances. If you find that the sleep regression is significantly impacting your toddler’s well-being or your family’s daily life, it may be worth consulting with a pediatrician or sleep consultant. They can assess whether there are any underlying health conditions that are contributing to the sleep disruptions.
In some cases, a pediatric sleep expert can help create a personalized sleep plan to guide your toddler back into healthy sleep habits. Websites like Sleep Foundation or National Sleep Association can be helpful resources for understanding sleep challenges in toddlers.
If you’re looking for additional support, consider joining a free sleep webinar hosted by sleep experts. These webinars provide helpful information on managing sleep regressions, creating consistent routines, and troubleshooting common sleep issues. Whether you’re in New York City, upstate NY, or anywhere else, these sessions offer invaluable tips for improving your toddler’s sleep.
To sign up for our free sleep red flags webinar and gain expert insights on overcoming sleep regressions and other challenges, click here: Free Sleep Webinar for Parents.
Sleep regressions can be tough, but with the right strategies, you can help your 18-month-old get back on track. By staying consistent, adjusting nap times, and offering comfort, you can weather this developmental milestone while keeping your toddler’s sleep schedule as smooth as possible. If needed, seek professional help from a toddler sleep expert like Jemma- get in touch. And remember – patience is key!
For more resources on toddler sleep schedules, visit websites like American Academy of Pediatrics for trusted information, or check out our other sleep-related blogs that offer easy to follow tips for parenting.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Many parents are going through the same thing. With the right strategies and support, you can help your little one sleep more peacefully, and you’ll both wake up feeling more rested and ready for the day ahead.
If you’re looking for more support on how to handle toddler sleep challenges, check out the Taming Toddler Sleep Programme , my signature group sleep and parenting programme. I guarantee you’ll get better sleep or I’ll work with you for free until you do!
Together, we can create a sleep routine that works for your family, helping everyone get the rest they deserve.
I have always been interested in gentle parenting techniques, and as a self confessed ‘geek’ I spent many a sleepless night reading. I became so interested in infant brain development and the science of sleep that I completed my Holistic Sleep Coaching qualification, mentored by the wonderful Lyndsey Hookway. I have been working as a toddler sleep consultant since 2018, I am based in Manchester but I can work with you from anywhere in the world online!
This coupled with my experience in settling techniques, toddler negotiation strategies and analysis of naps and sleep needs gives me a wealth of knowledge to be able help you.
If you’re looking for help with making changes to your family’s sleeping habits and would like to speak to a toddler sleep consultant who is down to earth and sympathetic and will focus on you and your family with empathy and understanding then please get in touch.
I would love to hear from you!
Jem x
Click here to book a free chat with Jem to discuss sleep packages and ensure we are a good fit. There is no obligation and I will only take clients where I genuinely feel I can change their lives.
I have three simple toddler sleep support packages, Read more about them here.
Yes! You can check out my free sleep resources here.
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