fbpx

5 Common Challenges with an 18-Month-Old Sleep Schedule in London (And How to Fix Them)

A toddler is asleep resting on folded arm. A pink circle has the title of the blog : 5 Common Challenges with an 18-Month-Old Sleep Schedule

Maintaining a consistent 18-month-old sleep schedule can be challenging.

At this stage, toddlers are developing their independence, which can lead to disruptions in their 18-month-old sleep schedule.

In this blog post, we’ll explore five common challenges parents face with an 18-month-old sleep schedule and provide practical solutions to overcome them.

Challenge 1: Bedtime Resistance

Why It Happens: At 18 months, toddlers often test boundaries and assert their independence, which can lead to resistance at bedtime, disrupting their 18-month-old sleep schedule.

Solution:

  • Stick to a consistent bedtime routine.
  • Offer choices, such as which pajamas to wear or which bedtime story to read, to give them a sense of control within their 18-month-old sleep schedule.
  • Avoid stimulating activities in the hour leading up to bedtime.

Challenge 2: Short or Skipped Naps

Why It Happens: Toddlers may struggle with naps due to overstimulation, changes in their environment, or transitioning to one nap, all of which can disrupt their 18-month-old sleep schedule.

Solution:

  • Create a calm and quiet nap environment.
  • Stick to a consistent nap schedule.
  • Watch for sleep cues, such as rubbing eyes or yawning, and put your child down for a nap before they become overtired, ensuring their 18-month-old sleep schedule stays intact.

Challenge 4: Early Morning Wake-Ups

Why It Happens: An inconsistent bedtime or too much daytime sleep can lead to early morning wake-ups, affecting the 18-month-old sleep schedule.

Solution:

  • Ensure your toddler’s bedtime is appropriate for their age.
  • Adjust nap times to ensure they’re not sleeping too much during the day.
  • Use blackout curtains to keep the room dark in the early morning, supporting their 18-month-old sleep schedule.

Challenge 5: Sleep Regressions

Why It Happens: Sleep regressions are common around 18 months due to developmental leaps or changes in routine, disrupting an established 18-month-old sleep schedule.

Solution:

  • Stay consistent with your toddler’s 18-month-old sleep schedule.
  • Be patient and provide extra comfort if needed.
  • Lean into what they need without worrying about bad habits or what will happen in the future, its never too late to change sleep.

By addressing these common challenges, you can help your toddler maintain a healthy and consistent 18-month-old sleep schedule. For personalised guidance, explore Blissed Out Babies’ resources and services.

Don’t Miss Our Free Webinar! We’re also hosting a free sleep red flags webinar to help parents identify health conditions that might impact sleep and provide advice on what to do next. Sign up today to learn more about supporting your toddler’s 18-month-old sleep schedule.

Where to next?

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.

Perfect, in my book The Better Sleep Blueprint I share all my best guides and strategies for sleep up to 2 years of age. Check it out here.

You can also read more of my blogs here.