Miya Pearson
Sleep is a crucial factor in the various developmental milestones seen in 18-month-olds, including walking and talking. However, it is common for toddlers to experience sleep regressions, which can manifest as problems falling asleep or multiple night wakings. This phase is often temporary and short-lived, but it can be challenging for caregivers and toddlers alike. Sleep regressions can be triggered by various factors, including developmental milestones, changes in routine, illness, teething, or separation anxiety. The duration of a sleep regression can vary, lasting from a few days to a few weeks, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine and promoting positive sleep habits are recommended approaches to navigate this tricky phase.
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What You'll Learn
Sleep regressions are common at 18 months
At 18 months, toddlers are gaining independence and a sense of self-awareness. They are learning new skills, such as walking and talking, and following simple commands. They are also becoming more curious and testing boundaries, which can lead to bedtime resistance and sleep disruptions. The excitement of practicing these new skills can also keep toddlers awake at night, and they may move around more in bed or talk when they should be sleeping.
Additionally, separation anxiety can peak between 12 and 24 months, and this can contribute to sleep difficulties. Toddlers may also experience discomfort from teething, which can further disrupt their sleep. These factors can all contribute to an 18-month sleep regression.
The good news is that this sleep regression is typically short-lived, and most toddlers will return to healthy sleep habits with time and patience. Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine and prioritizing safety are essential during this phase. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, experts recommend promoting positive sleep habits and sticking to a routine to help toddlers through this challenging period.
If you're concerned about your 18-month-old's sleep, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional or a sleep specialist for personalized advice and guidance. They can provide strategies tailored to your child's needs and help you navigate this tricky phase.
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Separation anxiety
At 18 months, children are experiencing major physical, cognitive, and emotional developments. They are developing a greater awareness of their ability to make decisions and are gaining a new understanding of cause and effect. They may begin to think, "I can choose what I do... Maybe I don't want to sleep." At the same time, they are also growing in their desire for independence but still crave the security of knowing their caregiver is close by. They want the reassurance that they are safe. This can lead to sleep struggles, such as taking short naps or suddenly struggling to fall asleep at naptime.
The signs of separation anxiety in babies include increased clinginess and crying, especially when the caregiver is initiating the separation, such as when putting the baby down or leaving the room. Older toddlers and preschoolers may experience separation anxiety during times of big life changes, such as starting a new school, moving to a new place, or the arrival of a new sibling. They may also experience it during times of big developmental changes, such as learning to run, climb, or follow one-step commands.
To help your 18-month-old cope with separation anxiety, you can try the following strategies:
- Practice being apart from each other gradually. For example, tell your baby "I'll be right back" when you leave the room and then always come back to greet them happily.
- Introduce new caregivers and places slowly. Invite a new babysitter or relative over in advance so they can spend time with your child while you're still in the room.
- Use loveys or comfort objects. These can provide a sense of security for your child when they are separated from you. However, wait until your child is at least 12 months old before allowing a lovey or comfort object in the crib.
- Have intentional 1-on-1 time with your child, even if it's just for a few minutes. This extra attention can help your child adjust to transitions or changes.
Remember, separation anxiety is a phase that will eventually pass. It is important to guide your child through this phase and know that you are doing the best you can.
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Resistance to bedtime
To support your child in feeling a sense of independence, it can be helpful to allow them to make age-appropriate choices during their sleep routine. For example, you could offer them a choice between two pairs of pyjamas or two bedtime stories. If your toddler would rather fuss than make a decision, calmly model choosing one of the options for them. Staying calm in the face of tantrums and modelling appropriate behaviours helps your child learn.
Another factor that may contribute to resistance to bedtime is overstimulation in the evening. As children get older, they may take longer to wind down and get ready for sleep. If your toddler is taking 30-45 minutes to fall asleep but is quite content during that time, it is recommended to leave them to it.
Additionally, the 18-month sleep regression is associated with toddlers' social-emotional growth, which may include a return of separation anxiety. This can lead to toddlers becoming concerned when parents and trusted caregivers leave them alone to sleep. To help your child through this, you may consider lengthening your pre-sleep routine to include extra cuddle time to promote comfort and security.
Finally, sleep regressions are frequently associated with brain development and physical milestones. Growth hormones released to help your child get bigger can disrupt their sleep cycles, and teething can also cause discomfort and restless nights.
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Restlessness
Sleep is an important factor in the developmental milestones of 18-month-olds, including walking, talking, and cognitive development. However, their trend toward improved sleep can be disrupted by what is commonly referred to as an "18-month sleep regression". This regression is characterised by restlessness, resistance to bedtime, and multiple night wakings.
Additionally, emotional factors can play a role in restlessness at this age. Separation anxiety, which can peak between 12 and 24 months, can contribute to restlessness and sleep difficulties. As 18-month-olds develop a stronger sense of independence, they may also start testing boundaries, which can lead to restlessness and resistance to sleep. They may begin to explore their newfound independence by choosing to continue playing instead of going to sleep or finding ways to climb out of their crib. While these behaviours can be frustrating for parents, they are developmentally appropriate and indicate your child's growing confidence and curiosity.
To address restlessness during the 18-month sleep regression, it is important to promote positive sleep habits and maintain a consistent routine. Recommit to a naptime and bedtime routine that helps prepare your toddler for quality sleep. Consider adjusting the length and number of naps to ensure they are getting the optimal amount of daytime sleep without interfering with their nighttime rest. Most 18-month-olds transition from two naps to one, aiming for a total of 12-14 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period, including 10-12 hours of overnight sleep and 2-3 hours of daytime sleep.
Remember that this phase is typically short-lived, and most toddlers will get back on track with healthy sleep habits and patience from their caregivers.
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Teething
To soothe a teething baby or toddler and help them sleep, there are several strategies you can try:
- Gum massage: Gently massage your child's sore gums with a clean finger to provide temporary relief.
- Teething toys: Provide your child with solid plastic teething toys or a cold washcloth to chew on. Avoid gel-filled toys as the gel can be washed away by drool.
- Cold food: If your child is eating solids, offer frozen or cold food, such as a banana or bagel, to chew on under supervision.
- Pain relievers: Consult your pediatrician about the appropriate use of over-the-counter pain relievers, such as baby acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin).
- Temperature control: Maintain a comfortable room temperature between 16°C and 20°C to promote better sleep. Avoid overdressing your child or using too many blankets, as overheating can disrupt sleep.
- Routine and comfort: Stick to a consistent bedtime routine as much as possible. Provide comfort through cuddles, soothing words, and skin-to-skin contact, which can help your child feel calmer and safer.
- White noise: Use white noise machines or apps to create a soothing sleep environment. White noise can help distract your child from pain and discomfort, promoting better sleep.
- Distraction: During the day, keep your child engaged and distracted to reduce their focus on teething pain.
- Dryness: Use durable bibs to keep your child as dry as possible during the day, reducing discomfort at night.
- Screen time reduction: Limit screen time an hour before bedtime to reduce blue light exposure, which can interfere with melatonin production and make it harder for your child to fall asleep.
While teething can be challenging, it is important to maintain a consistent approach to sleep and comfort. By combining these strategies with a strong sleep foundation, you can help your 18-month-old navigate this temporary phase and improve their sleep quality.
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Frequently asked questions
There could be several reasons for this, one of which is what is commonly referred to as the "18-month sleep regression". This is a temporary disruption in your child's sleep pattern, which could be caused by an increase in independence, overstimulation, restlessness, discomfort from teething, or separation anxiety.
Sleep regression is a common phrase used to describe a temporary disruption in your child's sleep. It is usually caused by an explosion of new learning and skills, which can take priority over sleep.
Some signs of sleep regression include waking multiple times a night for several days, fussiness, and resisting sleep. They may also sleep more during the day and be fussier than usual due to a lack of sleep.
Sleep regressions rarely last more than a few weeks, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each child is different, and the duration can depend on their development and any underlying issues.
You can help your child sleep by maintaining a consistent bedtime routine and ensuring they are not getting too much sleep during the day. Recommit to their routine, consider cutting a nap, and make bedtime relaxing.
