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How to Create the Perfect 18-Month-Old Sleep Schedule in London

A toddler sleeping on a bed, arms outstretched. A pink circle with write text; How to create the perfect 18 month old schedule

Establishing a consistent 18-month-old sleep schedule is essential for their growth, development, and overall well-being.

At this age, toddlers thrive on routine, and a predictable 18-month-old sleep schedule can help improve their mood, energy levels, and health.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how to create the perfect 18-month-old sleep schedule, tailored to your child’s unique needs

Why a Sleep Schedule Matters

An 18-month-old sleep schedule ensures toddlers get around 11-14 hours of sleep per day, including naps and nighttime sleep.

An effective 18-month-old sleep schedule supports their rapidly developing brains and bodies.

Without an appropriate 18-month-old sleep schedule, your toddler may become irritable, have difficulty focusing, and the quality of your night time sleep might be impacted.

Steps to Create the Perfect Sleep Schedule

  1. Determine Your Toddler’s Sleep Needs:
    • Most 18-month-olds require 1-2 hours of nap time during the day and 10-12 hours of nighttime sleep.
    • Observe your child’s natural sleep patterns to identify their optimal bedtime and wake-up time within their 18-month-old sleep schedule.
  2. Establish a Bedtime Routine:
    • Create a calming pre-bedtime routine that meets their sensory, physical and emotional needs.
    • Keep the routine consistent to signal to your toddler that it’s time to wind down as part of their 18-month-old sleep schedule.
  3. Set a Regular Nap Time:
    • Schedule naps at the same time each day, ideally in the early afternoon.
    • Ensure the nap doesn’t extend too close to bedtime to avoid disrupting the 18-month-old sleep schedule.
  4. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment:
    • Make sure your toddler’s room is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature.
    • Use a white noise machine if external noises are an issue, as this can help maintain their 18-month-old sleep schedule.
  5. Be Consistent:
    • Stick to the schedule as closely as possible, even on weekends or during travel. 
    • Consistency helps regulate your child’s internal clock, making it easier for them to fall asleep and wake up at the same time each day within their 18-month-old sleep schedule.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Night Wakings: If your toddler wakes up frequently during the night, check for potential issues such as hunger, discomfort, or illness.

Toddlers often struggle with separation anxiety which makes it hard for them to go back to sleep without your presence. It’s OK to lean into that while they are finding it hard. 

Resistance to Bedtime: Toddlers may resist bedtime due to overstimulation, unmet physical or sensory needs, or under/overtiredness. Try to focus on connection in the evening to ease their separation anxiety at bedtime.

Work on finding the most effective evening activities and bedtime routines to support their 18-month-old sleep schedule.

By following these steps and being patient, you can create an 18-month-old sleep schedule that works for both you and your toddler. At Blissed Out Babies, I offer expert advice and resources to help parents navigate sleep challenges with confidence.

Join Our Free Sleep Red Flags Webinar To help you further, we’re hosting a free webinar on sleep red flags. It covers common health conditions that might affect your child’s sleep and offers practical advice on where to seek help.

Sign up today to learn how to ensure your toddler gets the quality sleep they need while maintaining their 18-month-old sleep schedule.

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Jem

Jemma Munford is a Mum of two, Holistic Sleep Coach and all-round sleep geek, based in Manchester. Her focus on empowering parents, responsive methods, and realistic expectations make her approach a unique one in the space. You can buy her book, The Better Sleep Blueprint: A realistic guide to baby sleep for parents who don't want to sleep train on this website, on Amazon and at any bookshop nationwide.

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.