Herbie Murray
Sleep training is a controversial topic, with some sources recommending against it, especially for 18-month-olds, as night waking is common and normal throughout a child's first few years. However, other sources offer various methods for parents who want to sleep train their 18-month-olds. These include the cry-it-out (CIO) method, the chair method, sleep lady shuffle, and excuses method. Gentle sleep training techniques are also recommended, such as providing reassurance and company at bedtime, then slowly weaning your toddler off needing you there as they fall asleep. Positive reinforcement, such as small rewards or a sticker chart, can also be used. Before sleep training, it is essential to establish a consistent bedtime and nap routine and ensure age-appropriate boundaries.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Age | 18 months |
| Sleep needs | 11-14 hours of sleep in 24 hours |
| Number of naps | 1 mid-day nap |
| Bedtime | 7/7:30 pm |
| Sleep training techniques | Positive reinforcement, gentle sleep training, cry it out, controlled crying, graduated extinction, unmodified excitation, bedtime fading, chair method, sleep lady shuffle, excuses method |
| Sleep tools | Night-light, relaxing bedtime music, comfort item |
| Night weaning | Possible to begin the process, provided that physical or emotional reasons for frequent nursing sessions are ruled out |
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What You'll Learn
Establish a consistent bedtime routine
Establishing a consistent bedtime routine is a crucial aspect of helping your 18-month-old toddler develop healthy sleep habits. Here are some detailed suggestions to create a calming and predictable bedtime routine:
Firstly, aim for a consistent bedtime each night. Typically, toddlers between the ages of 12 and 18 months require 11 to 14 hours of sleep within a 24-hour period. Based on this, you might consider setting a bedtime between 7 and 7:30 pm. Consistency is key, as deviating from this routine can disrupt the body's natural sleep rhythms, making it more challenging to get your toddler to sleep.
Secondly, establish a soothing pre-bedtime routine that avoids stimulating activities. This routine should ideally last between 20 and 45 minutes and include a series of calming activities. For example, start by announcing that it's "sleepy time" to signal that bedtime preparations are about to begin. This could be followed by brushing teeth, a warm bath or a gentle wipe-down, and changing into comfortable sleepwear.
Next, incorporate some soothing activities that promote relaxation and bonding. Reading stories is an excellent way to wind down. Consider choosing books with bedtime themes, such as 'The Sleep Book' by Dr. Seuss, 'Kiss Goodnight Sam', or 'Go to Sleep Doodlehead'. You can also introduce a comfort item, such as a soft blanket or a favourite stuffed toy, which can become a sleep association item.
If your toddler uses a pacifier, provide them with several, but explain that you won't be putting them back in during the night if they fall out. You might also offer a small cup of milk or breastfeed, though this step is optional and may be something you wish to phase out as your toddler gets older.
Finally, it's important to provide reassurance and proximity during the initial stages of this bedtime routine. You can lie in bed with your toddler or sit next to them until they fall asleep. Over time, you can gradually reduce the amount of time spent in their room, slowly weaning them off the need for your constant presence at bedtime. This builds their confidence in falling asleep independently without undermining their trust in you.
Remember, every family is unique, and you can adapt these suggestions to fit your specific needs and preferences. The key is to be consistent with the routine you establish, making adjustments as necessary to meet the evolving needs of your toddler.
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Gentle sleep training techniques
Sleep training can be a challenging process for both toddlers and parents, and it's important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The right method for your family will depend on what you and your toddler are most comfortable with. Here are some gentle sleep training techniques that you can consider:
Respectful Sleep Training
This technique focuses on creating a secure attachment with your toddler, responding to their cues, and guiding them back to sleep. It is a flexible approach that does not rely on a strict routine. Respectful sleep training typically requires more time and commitment from parents, as it takes longer for toddlers to learn to fall asleep independently.
Fading Sleep Training Method
Also known as the "pick-up, put-down" method, this technique involves gradually reducing the amount of time you spend on activities that help your toddler fall asleep, such as rocking or singing. When your toddler starts to fuss, let them settle on their own for a little while. If they don't seem to be calming down, go to them, soothe them, and then put them back to bed before they fall asleep in your arms. Repeat this process until they fall asleep. This method can be time-consuming and requires dedication and patience from parents.
Gradual Sleep Training
This approach is ideal for parents who want to take things slow. It involves physically distancing yourself from your toddler over time while providing occasional physical and verbal reassurance. You can start by placing a chair next to the crib and gradually moving it closer to the doorway over several nights or up to a week. Eventually, you will remove the chair and walk out of the room before your toddler falls asleep.
Creating a Predictable Bedtime Routine
Toddlers thrive on order and predictability. Establishing a calming bedtime routine can help reduce bedtime struggles. About an hour before bedtime, engage in quiet play, turn off screens, dim the lights, and play low-volume white noise. Introducing a comfort object, such as a stuffed animal, can also provide toddlers with the security they need to fall asleep and stay asleep.
It's important to remember that sleep training is a gradual process, and setbacks are normal. The key to success is consistency and patience. Additionally, it's essential to consider your toddler's unique needs and make age-appropriate adjustments to their sleep schedule as they grow and develop.
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Positive reinforcement and rewards
The first step is to establish a consistent bedtime routine. This means that your toddler goes to bed at the same time every night, which helps to regulate their body's natural sleep rhythms. A relaxing pre-bedtime routine that lasts 20-45 minutes is also recommended. This can include soothing activities such as taking a bath, changing into pyjamas, and reading stories.
The next step is to gradually change your toddler's sleep habits. For example, if your toddler is used to being fed to sleep, you can start by rocking them to sleep instead. Over time, you can reduce the amount of rocking until you are eventually able to put them in their crib while they are still awake. This gradual approach helps your toddler adjust to falling asleep independently.
Positive reinforcement can be used to encourage your toddler's good sleep behaviours. For example, if your toddler sleeps in their own bed all night, they can be rewarded with a sticker in the morning that they can put on their sticker board. Older children can be rewarded with something that aligns with their interests, such as a small toy. It is important to keep the rewards age-appropriate, achievable, and realistic.
In addition to positive reinforcement, you can also provide verbal praise. For instance, you can say something like, "Thanks for staying in bed while I popped out. Good job settling down like that!" This combination of rewards and praise helps to reinforce your toddler's sense of accomplishment and encourages them to continue practising good sleep habits.
Remember, the goal of sleep training is for your toddler to fall asleep independently and connect their sleep cycles so they can sleep for longer. It is important to be patient and consistent with your chosen approach, as it may take some time for your toddler to adapt to these new sleep habits.
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Separation anxiety and night weaning
Separation anxiety is a normal part of a baby's emotional and social development. It typically occurs in babies between the ages of 6 months and 2 years. At night, separation anxiety can manifest as a reluctance to be separated from a parent or caregiver, resulting in difficulty settling down to sleep and/or frequent waking during the night. Babies with separation anxiety may cry or get upset when a parent tries to leave the room, or they may become clingy, irritable, or more fussy than usual.
To deal with nighttime separation anxiety, parents can go to their infant and offer reassurance with calming words and physical touch, but it is advised to avoid picking them up. Maintaining a consistent nighttime routine can also help, as babies will learn what to expect at the end of each day.
Gentle sleep training techniques are recommended for toddlers. This involves giving the toddler all the reassurance and company they need at bedtime to fall asleep. Over a few nights, parents can slowly wean their toddler off needing them there as they fall asleep. This technique is done at the toddler's pace and helps build their confidence in sleeping independently. It is important to follow through with what is said, such as staying with the toddler until they fall asleep, to build trust.
Night weaning is another option to help toddlers sleep independently, but it is not necessary and will not guarantee better sleep. It may be helpful to wait until the toddler is past a regression, teething, or ill before attempting night weaning.
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Self-settling techniques
Responsive Settling
Responsive settling is a widely recognised technique that involves responding promptly and sensitively to your toddler's needs. It is important to recognise your toddler's cues, tired signs, and the intensity of their cry. You can then respond appropriately, providing comfort and support to help them settle. This method may take longer than other strategies, and it requires consistency. It is important to note that this approach may not suit every family, and it is essential to choose a strategy that aligns with your family's needs and values.
Positive Bedtime Routine
Establishing a positive bedtime routine is crucial for self-settling. This involves creating a calm and relaxing environment about 20 minutes before your toddler's bedtime. Consistency is key—performing the same quiet, enjoyable activities at the same time each night helps your toddler recognise bedtime cues and prepare for sleep. A predictable routine can include activities such as a meal, bath, cleaning teeth, storytime, cuddles, and kisses before moving to the cot or bed.
Gradual Reduction of Settling Help
To encourage self-settling, it is essential to gradually reduce the amount of help you provide. For example, if you usually rock your toddler to sleep, try slowing down or stopping the rocking once they become drowsy. Eventually, you can move to leaving the room while they are still awake but drowsy. This gradual approach allows your toddler to learn new ways to settle independently.
Safe and Familiar Sleep Environment
Creating a safe and familiar sleep environment is crucial for self-settling. Ensure your toddler's room is calm, comfortable, dimly lit, and quiet. Your toddler should sleep on their back on a firm, flat, and level surface, free from any hazards. A safe sleep environment not only promotes self-settling but also reduces the risk of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI), including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Remember, every toddler is unique, and you should choose the techniques that align with your family's values and your toddler's needs. Be responsive to their cues and make adjustments as necessary. With consistency and patience, your 18-month-old will develop the important skill of self-settling, leading to improved sleep for both you and your toddler.
Frequently asked questions
Gentle sleep training techniques are recommended for 18-month-olds. Start by establishing a consistent bedtime routine, including a relaxing pre-bedtime ritual lasting 20-45 minutes with soothing activities like reading stories, taking a bath, and changing into PJs. You can also introduce a sleep association toy or blanket. Over a few nights, slowly wean your toddler off needing you there as they fall asleep.
Try to stick to the same bedtime every night, around 7/7:30 pm. This helps to avoid disrupting the body's natural sleep rhythms.
Night waking is very normal for toddlers. It can be due to separation anxiety, which peaks around 18 months of age. Toddlers may also wake up due to changing sleep needs, as they require 11-14 hours of sleep in 24 hours, which is less than when they were younger.
Some sleep training methods, such as "cry it out" (CIO) or controlled crying, may not be effective for toddlers. These methods may result in constant screaming and tantrums, especially if your toddler is experiencing separation anxiety. Instead, focus on gentle sleep training techniques that provide reassurance and comfort.
