Ashwin Lewis
As toddlers become more independent, they may start to resist bedtime and exhibit signs of separation anxiety. This can lead to protests and struggles at bedtime, resulting in sleep regression. While this is a common challenge for parents of 18-month-olds, there are strategies to help your toddler develop healthy sleep habits. From maintaining a consistent bedtime routine to addressing fears and anxieties, you can support your child in getting the sleep they need during this temporary phase.
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What You'll Learn
Tips for dealing with 18-month sleep regression
Sleep regression is a common phrase used to describe a temporary disruption in your child's sleep. This could manifest as your 18-month-old waking up at night, rising early, or refusing to nap. The 18-month sleep regression is considered one of the toughest baby and toddler sleep regressions, as your toddler might go from sleeping well both day and night to protesting sleep or waking frequently.
- Prepare for bedtime during the day: According to Dr. Karp, "Toddlers sleep better when they have a day filled with fresh air, sunshine, good food, and outdoor play." Exposing your toddler to natural outdoor light early in the day is important.
- Rehearse your routines: Create a DIY beddy-bye book, featuring images that illustrate all the steps of your child's bedtime routine. Reading it together during the day teaches your toddler what to expect when bedtime rolls around.
- Maintain a consistent bedtime routine: While you should incorporate "jobs" and limited choices for your child to actively participate in the process, you should still maintain predictability and limits. For example, you can offer two pairs of pyjamas and let your child choose one, or ask your child to get their toothbrush out of the cabinet.
- Support your child's independence: Your toddler is developing a greater awareness of their ability to make decisions, so give them some control over the bedtime routine while still maintaining consistency.
- Avoid creating bad habits: The 18-month sleep regression is usually a temporary challenge. However, bad habits created during this time can last much longer. Avoid falling into routines you won't want to continue in the long term.
- Provide comfort and safety: Toddlers may get anxious when the lights are turned off and fear monsters under the bed. Surround them with various items of comfort to make them feel safe and learn to fall asleep on their own.
- Sweet talk: When your toddler is tucked in and calm, recount some fun experiences and acts of kindness from the day. Sweet talk makes bedtime something your toddler looks forward to and helps you bond with them.
- Healthy snacks: If your toddler is still hungry after dinner, offer a healthy snack like a banana or cheese stick about 45 minutes after dinner. Avoid giving snacks too late, as this may be a stalling tactic.
- Tuck them in while they're sleepy but awake: You want your toddler to learn to put themselves to sleep.
- Address nightmares: Provide your toddler with refuge in your bed if they have a nightmare, but once they've calmed down, place them back in their own bed.
- Expose them to daylight early: Preparing for your toddler's bedtime starts in the morning. Get them outside early in the day, exposing them to fresh air and natural outdoor light.
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How to help your toddler fall asleep
Sleep regression is a common phenomenon in 18-month-old toddlers, and it can be a challenging period for parents and caregivers. However, there are several strategies that can help your toddler fall asleep and get through this phase.
Firstly, it is important to understand the underlying causes of sleep regression at this age. Toddlers go through significant physical, cognitive, and emotional development, which can impact their sleep. They gain more independence, become more mobile, and their communication skills improve. These changes can lead to increased separation anxiety, a desire to test boundaries, and emerging imagination that might trigger new fears, all of which can contribute to sleep challenges.
To help your toddler fall asleep during this phase, here are some strategies you can try:
- Maintain a consistent bedtime routine: A predictable bedtime routine is crucial. Include activities that promote calmness and signal to your toddler that bedtime is approaching. For example, you can give them a bath, read a book, or sing lullabies.
- Involve your toddler in the bedtime routine: Toddlers crave control and independence. Involve them in the process by offering limited choices, such as letting them pick their pajamas or ask them to get their toothbrush. This gives them a sense of autonomy while maintaining predictability.
- Expose them to natural light and outdoor play during the day: Toddlers sleep better when they have spent time outdoors, getting fresh air and natural light. Encourage outdoor activities and ensure they get enough exposure to sunlight during the day.
- Address their fears and anxieties: Toddlers may start to experience nightmares and fears of monsters under the bed or other worries. Address these concerns by providing comfort items, such as a stuffed animal or a favourite blanket, and reassuring them that they are safe.
- Avoid snacks too close to bedtime: While it's okay to offer a healthy snack if your toddler is still hungry after dinner, avoid giving them food too close to bedtime. This helps prevent bedtime stalling tactics and teaches them to regulate their eating habits.
- Create a DIY beddy-bye book: Make a book with images illustrating all the steps of your toddler's bedtime routine. Reading this book together during the day prepares them for what to expect at night and can make bedtime something they look forward to.
- Gradual exit strategy: When it's time for bed, tuck your toddler in while they're sleepy but still awake. Gradually increase the time you spend outside the room, returning to praise them for waiting. This method, known as Twinkle Interruptus, can help your toddler fall asleep independently.
Remember, this phase is typically temporary and it will not last forever. Each toddler is unique, and you can experiment with different strategies to find what works best for your child. If sleeping problems persist or you have concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your toddler's pediatrician for further guidance.
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Strategies for maintaining a consistent bedtime routine
The 18-month sleep regression is a challenging phase for parents and toddlers alike. At this age, toddlers are going through significant physical, cognitive, and emotional development, which can impact their sleep. They are also developing a sense of independence and may start to resist bedtime or nap time. Here are some strategies to maintain a consistent bedtime routine:
Prepare for bedtime during the day: Exposing your toddler to fresh air, natural light, and outdoor play during the day can help improve their sleep at night. A well-rested toddler is less likely to be overtired and wired at bedtime.
Rehearse your bedtime routines: Create a visual routine chart or a DIY beddy-bye book with images illustrating the steps of your child's bedtime routine. Reading it together during the day can help your toddler understand and feel more comfortable with the routine.
Involve your toddler in the process: Toddlers crave control and independence. Involve them in the bedtime routine by offering limited choices, such as letting them choose their pajamas or asking them to get their toothbrush. This gives them a sense of autonomy while maintaining predictability and limits.
Address their fears and worries: Toddlers may experience separation anxiety and have fears about monsters, strangers, or other concerns. Address these worries by providing comfort items, such as a lovey or a stuffed animal, and creating a safe and secure environment.
Maintain a consistent bedtime: A consistent bedtime between 6:30 pm and 8:00 pm is common for this age group. Stick to a regular bedtime and avoid deviating too much from the schedule to help regulate your toddler's circadian rhythm.
Avoid snacks too close to bedtime: While it's okay to offer a healthy snack if your toddler is still hungry after dinner, avoid giving them food too close to bedtime. This can help prevent tantrums or stall tactics and establish a healthy relationship with food.
Remember that this phase is temporary, and with patience, consistency, and creativity, you can help your toddler navigate this challenging time and establish healthy sleep habits.
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Understanding the causes of sleep regression
Sleep regression is a common phrase used to describe a temporary disruption in a child's sleep. This could manifest as a child waking up at night, rising early, or refusing to nap. While sleep regression is a typical part of a child's development, it can be challenging for caregivers. Understanding the causes of sleep regression can help caregivers navigate this phase with their child.
Developmental milestones
Around 18 months, toddlers experience significant physical, cognitive, and emotional development. They gain mobility, become more communicative, and exhibit deeper emotional reactions. These changes can lead to increased separation anxiety, boundary-testing behaviours, and a stronger desire for independence, which may contribute to sleep regression.
Changing sleep needs
At 18 months, toddlers may transition from taking two naps a day to consolidating their sleep into one afternoon nap. This transition can take a few weeks to a month and may disrupt their previous sleep patterns. Additionally, their biological bedtime may shift due to changes in their circadian rhythm, making it challenging for them to fall asleep even when they are tired.
Resistance to bedtime
Toddlers' growing sense of independence and exploration can make them resistant to bedtime. They may protest sleep, preferring to continue engaging in exciting activities like running, climbing, and playing. Their heightened imagination and new fears may also contribute to their reluctance to sleep. Toddlers may worry about monsters under the bed, strangers, or other concerns that can make it difficult for them to settle down.
Physical discomfort
Teething and other physical discomforts can interrupt a toddler's sleep. Additionally, their expanding mobility and physical abilities can lead to restlessness, making it challenging for them to stay asleep throughout the night.
Nightmares and fears
While uncommon, nightmares can occur in 18-month-old toddlers. These nightmares can cause distress and impact their sleep patterns. Toddlers may also experience fears related to misinterpretations of ordinary situations or stress, further disrupting their sleep.
It is important to remember that sleep regression is typically a temporary phase. Caregivers can employ various strategies, such as maintaining a consistent bedtime routine, providing comfort, and promoting outdoor activities during the day, to help their toddlers navigate this challenging period.
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When to seek professional help for sleep issues
Sleep regression is a common phenomenon in 18-month-old toddlers, and it can be a challenging time for parents and caregivers. While it is a normal part of development, there may be instances when you need to seek professional help for your child's sleep issues. Here are some indicators of when to seek that help:
- When it significantly impacts your mental health or parenting confidence: Sleep regression can be frustrating and exhausting for parents and caregivers. If you find yourself struggling mentally or feeling a lack of confidence in your parenting abilities due to your toddler's sleep issues, it may be time to seek professional support. This can include consulting a paediatrician, a child psychologist, or a sleep specialist.
- When your child's overall well-being is affected: Sleep is crucial for your toddler's development and overall health. If their sleep regression is accompanied by other concerning symptoms or behaviours, such as persistent irritability, increased anxiety, or a noticeable decline in their energy levels, it may be best to consult a healthcare professional. They can assess your child's overall well-being and provide guidance or interventions to improve their sleep.
- When sleep issues persist or worsen: While sleep regression is considered a temporary challenge, it's important to recognise that each child's experience is unique. If your toddler's sleep issues persist beyond what is typically expected (generally 2 to 6 weeks for 18-month sleep regression) or if they intensify, it may be wise to seek professional advice. A sleep specialist or your paediatrician can help identify any underlying causes and provide tailored solutions.
- When safety becomes a concern: As your toddler goes through sleep regression, they may start to climb out of their cot or bed. If this poses a safety risk, it's important to transition them to a bed and ensure their sleeping environment is safe. If you need guidance on creating a safe sleep space or addressing any safety concerns, don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional or a child safety specialist.
- When you feel concerned: Every family is unique, and it's important to trust your instincts. If your child's sleep patterns are causing concern or affecting your family dynamic, reach out for help. Maternal and child health professionals, including nurses and doctors, are equipped to provide advice and support tailored to your situation. They can offer strategies to improve sleep and address any specific concerns you may have.
Remember, while the 18-month sleep regression is a phase that many toddlers go through, it's important to prioritise your family's well-being. Seeking professional help can provide you with the tools and support needed to navigate this challenging period effectively.
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Frequently asked questions
It is common for 18-month-olds to experience a sleep regression due to their development and increased independence. You can try to maintain a consistent bedtime routine, but also give your child some control by incorporating "jobs" and limited choices. For example, you can offer two pairs of pyjamas and let your child choose one, or ask them to find their lovey and put it in their crib.
The 18-month sleep regression usually lasts from 2 to 6 weeks, but it differs for each child. Some children may never experience it, and others may only experience it for a short time.
Make sure your child gets fresh air and natural light during the day. You can also try to prepare them for bedtime by rehearsing your bedtime routines during the day. If your child is still hungry after dinner, it is okay to offer a healthy snack 45 minutes after, but avoid giving them food too close to bedtime.
