Evie Summers
If your 15-month-old is not sleeping, you're not alone. Many parents face this issue, and it's often referred to as the 15-month sleep regression. During this time, toddlers may experience a harder time falling or staying asleep, wake up more frequently at night, or wake up earlier than usual. This phase is typically temporary and linked to developmental progressions, such as increased independence and understanding of object permanence, which can lead to separation anxiety and more active exploration of the world around them. To help your toddler through this, you can encourage physical activity during the day, provide opportunities for skill development, and maintain a consistent bedtime routine in a soothing sleep environment.
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What You'll Learn
The 15-month sleep regression
At 15 months, toddlers are exploring their independence and pushing parental limits more. They may decide they'd rather play instead of starting their sleep routine or try to grab a book instead of settling down for a nap. This newfound independence could cause resistance to sleep. Separation anxiety, which typically peaks between 9 or 10 and 18 months, is also a likely cause of the 15-month sleep regression.
There are several things you can do to help your toddler get through this phase:
- Stick to a consistent bedtime and nap routine. Consistency signals to your toddler that sleep is coming every night, the same way.
- Create a soothing sleep environment. Ensure your child's sleep space is cool, dark, and quiet. You can also use a white noise machine or blackout curtains to help create a peaceful environment.
- Use a lovey or security item. Many children find comfort in having a special stuffed animal or blanket when they sleep.
- Encourage your toddler to use their new physical skills during the day. Allow them to practice new skills like cruising along furniture, toddling around, or climbing stairs (with supervision). This makes these activities seem less exciting when it's time to sleep.
- Provide opportunities for active play during the day. As toddlers get older, they need and want more stimulation. Ensure they have time to move their bodies and explore their surroundings.
Remember, the 15-month sleep regression is a temporary phase that typically lasts a couple of weeks. Your toddler's sleep will get back on track with time and consistency.
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Separation anxiety
At around four to seven months, babies learn "object permanence", which is the idea that even if you step away from the room, you still exist. This is when separation anxiety can first hit, although it is still not as common at this age. Between 8-10 months, babies gain a much better idea of daily rhythms and routines, and this can cause separation anxiety tears even before you leave the room. The biggest surges in separation anxiety often occur between 8-10 months and again around 14-18 months. However, it is important to note that each baby develops at their own pace, so signs of separation anxiety may appear before or after these ranges.
Another strategy is to practice leaving the room and coming back, reassuring your baby that you will return. Games like peek-a-boo and hide-and-seek can also help teach object permanence and reinforce that you will come back. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can help your child anticipate the situation and reduce fears and anxiety. This can include rituals such as bath time, storytime, and putting on pajamas before sticking to a consistent bedtime. Additionally, you can try high-frequency check-ins every few minutes to reassure your child that you are nearby, gradually reducing the frequency while continuing to check in.
Remember that the separation anxiety phase is just that: a phase. It is normal to feel upset or like you are abandoning your child during this time, but it is important to focus on guiding them through these new feelings and know that you are doing your best.
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Increased independence
At 14 or 15 months, toddlers may start to exhibit more independent behaviour and imitate their parents' actions, such as attempting to put on their own socks or "cleaning up". They may also be taking their first steps, walking independently, or climbing on furniture or stairs. This desire for independence can extend to bedtime, with toddlers perhaps wanting to get out of bed and explore, rather than sleep.
At this age, toddlers are also developing object permanence, which can lead to increased separation anxiety. This can make sleep challenging, with toddlers crying when you leave the room or when you put them in their crib. They may stand in the crib and fight sleep, or wake up earlier than usual.
To help your toddler through this phase, it is important to remain consistent with your approach to sleep. You can encourage your toddler to use their new physical skills during the day, so they are tired come bedtime. For example, give them time to cruise along furniture, toddle around, or climb stairs (with supervision). Singing songs together and playing with blocks can also help develop their coordination and language skills.
It is also important to stick to a consistent bedtime routine, even when travelling. A soothing sleep environment is also beneficial: a cool, dark, quiet room with white noise or blackout curtains can help. Using a comfort item, such as a stuffed animal, can also aid sleep.
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Sleep training
If your 15-month-old is not sleeping, they may be experiencing a sleep regression. Sleep regressions can happen at any age but are most common at 4 months, 8-10 months, 12 months, 15 months, 18 months, and 2 years. During this time, your toddler may have a harder time falling or staying asleep, wake up more frequently during the night, or wake up earlier than usual.
Consistency is key: Stick to a consistent bedtime and nap routine, even when travelling. A predictable routine can help your toddler feel calmer and more relaxed before bed. Ensure their sleep space is cool, dark, and quiet, and consider using a white noise machine or blackout curtains to create a peaceful environment.
Encourage physical activity during the day: Allow your toddler to practice their new physical skills, such as cruising along furniture or climbing stairs with supervision. This helps them develop their gross motor skills and makes them less likely to want to practice these skills at night.
Develop healthy sleep habits: The 14-15 month regression can be a great time to work on healthy sleep habits. Consider a sleep training plan or method, such as the chair method, bedtime fading, or Ferber. You can also try the pick-up/put-down method, where you put your toddler down in their cot and then leave the room, returning to reassure them if needed.
Use comfort items: Many toddlers find comfort in having a special stuffed animal or security blanket, also known as a "lovey." Encourage your toddler to bond with their lovey during the day and remind them to snuggle with it at night.
Limit daytime sleep: To ensure your toddler isn't going to bed overtired, limit their daytime sleep to 2 hours or 90 minutes. This will help regulate their hormones and reduce overnight wakings.
Remember, it is important to consult your pediatrician before beginning any sleep-training program to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your child's needs.
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Creating a soothing sleep environment
A 15-month sleep regression is a common phenomenon, where toddlers experience a change in their sleep patterns. During this time, your child may have a harder time falling or staying asleep, wake up more frequently during the night, or wake up earlier than usual.
Stick to a consistent bedtime routine
Having a predictable bedtime routine can help your child feel calmer and more relaxed before bed. Try to keep the routine the same every night, even when travelling. A consistent sleep schedule with regular bedtimes and wake-up times will help regulate your toddler's internal sleep-wake cycle.
Create a soothing sleep environment
Ensure your child’s sleep space is cool, dark, and quiet. You can use a night light or a sensory lamp to provide a soft and calming glow in the room. The ideal bedroom temperature for a good night's sleep is between 15 and 19 degrees Celsius.
Use white noise
White noise or soft, gentle music can be beneficial in drowning out other noises and creating a peaceful sleep environment. Be sure to choose sounds that are specifically designed for sleep, like ocean waves or raindrops.
Choose soothing colours
The colours and decor in your toddler's bedroom can impact their mood and willingness to sleep. Opt for soothing and calming colours like soft blues, greens, or pastels. Avoid using bright and vibrant colours or patterns that can be overstimulating.
Provide comfort objects
Many children find comfort in having a special stuffed animal or security blanket. These familiar objects provide a sense of security and create a comforting space for your toddler to drift off to sleep.
Encourage independent bedtime habits
Establish a calming bedtime routine that is consistent and predictable. Allow infants to fall asleep on their own so that they can learn to comfort themselves. You can also encourage your child to clear up their toys after playtime before bedtime, creating a tidy and calm environment.
Remember, it is important to remain consistent with your approach to sleep during this temporary sleep regression.
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Frequently asked questions
Your toddler may be experiencing the 15-month sleep regression, a period when babies and toddlers go through a change in their sleep patterns. During this time, your child may have trouble falling or staying asleep, wake up more frequently during the night, or wake up earlier than usual.
The 15-month sleep regression is temporary and typically lasts 1-2 weeks. It is important to remain consistent with your approach to sleep during this time.
Here are some tips to help your toddler sleep during this time:
- Stick to a consistent bedtime routine and nap schedule.
- Create a soothing sleep environment by ensuring your child's sleep space is cool, dark, and quiet.
- Use a lovey or security item, such as a special stuffed animal, for comfort.
- Encourage your toddler to use their new physical skills during the day so that they are tired by bedtime.
If you are concerned about your child's sleep or health, it is recommended to consult your pediatrician. They can help rule out any medical issues and offer advice on supporting your child's sleep needs. Loud breathing, snoring, or disruptive nightmares are also reasons to call the doctor.
