Ashwin Lewis
Sleep is an important factor in the various developmental milestones seen in 18-month-old toddlers, including walking and talking. While sleep patterns differ for every child, many toddlers experience a common sleep pattern disruption called a sleep regression around 18 months. This temporary interruption in a toddler's normal nighttime and napping routine can be triggered by several factors, including developmental milestones, illness, teething, and changes in routine. It is characterised by fussiness, nighttime awakenings, and more daytime naps.
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Sleep regression
The symptoms of an 18-month sleep regression rarely last for more than a few weeks. The exact timeframe depends on the toddler's development and the underlying issues causing their sleep regression. During this time, toddlers may refuse to nap or sleep at all, and night waking may become a frequent occurrence. This can be attributed to various factors, such as increased mobility, a desire for independence, and heightened separation anxiety.
To cope with sleep regression, it is important to reinforce a bedtime routine and sleep schedule, create a comfortable sleep environment, and ensure that caregivers are promoting positive sleep habits for their toddlers. It is also recommended to provide lots of daytime stimulation and exercise for 18-month-olds, as well as scheduling their naps earlier in the day to avoid nighttime sleep problems.
While sleep regression can be frustrating, it is important to remember that it is connected to a child's mental and physical development. During this stage, toddlers are taking in the world around them and learning more than ever, which can leave them a little restless. Growth hormones released during this time can also disrupt their sleep cycles.
Some practical tips to strengthen sleep habits and reduce disruptions include maintaining a regular bedtime, following a consistent bedtime routine with soothing activities, and limiting screen time before bed to avoid upsetting their circadian rhythm.
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Separation anxiety
Sleep regression is common in 18-month-old toddlers, and it can be caused by several factors, including increased mobility and awareness. This can lead to fussiness, nighttime awakenings, and more daytime naps. However, separation anxiety could also be a contributing factor to your 18-month-old's sleep issues.
To help your toddler through this phase, it is important to nurture your bond while also setting clear boundaries. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Avoid displaying anxiety or sadness at bedtime, as children often mirror these emotions. Instead, be comforting, offer hugs and kisses, and confidently wish them good night.
- Teach them that the crib is a happy place by interacting with them in the crib when they are happy and after naps.
- Introduce a lovey or a favourite stuffed animal for comfort. After age one, it is safe to have a small stuffed toy in bed with them, promoting calm and relaxation.
- Encourage age-appropriate independence during their sleep routine by offering simple choices, such as selecting their pajamas or bedtime book.
- Maintain a consistent bedtime routine and sleep schedule, creating a comfortable and secure sleep environment.
- Provide extra attention and connection through intentional 1-on-1 time, helping your toddler adjust to any big transitions or changes.
Remember, the separation anxiety phase will pass, and you are doing the best you can to guide your child through it.
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Teething
To help soothe a teething baby or toddler, you can try:
- Maintaining a comfortable room temperature: The room should not be too cold or too hot, as extremes of temperature can interfere with sleep. Dress your child appropriately and avoid too many layers or thick blankets.
- Massaging the gums: Gently massaging your child's gums with a clean finger can provide temporary relief.
- Providing safe chewing options: Offer your child teething toys or cold washcloths to gnaw on. If your child is 6 months or older, you can give them raw fruits and vegetables or solid finger foods to chew on before bed. Always supervise your child while they are eating to prevent choking.
- Comfort and cuddles: Skin-to-skin contact, cuddling, and holding your child can provide comfort and help distract them from the pain.
- White noise: Playing white noise can help distract your child from the discomfort and may promote sleep.
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce teething discomfort. Always consult your doctor before administering any medication to your child.
While teething may be a contributing factor to sleep disturbances, it is important to consider other potential causes as well. Sleep regressions are common around 18 months and can be influenced by factors such as increased mobility, awareness, and separation anxiety. Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine and sleep schedule can help promote positive sleep habits during this time.
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Increased mobility
At this stage, toddlers are curious and active, and their crib or bed may become a new challenge to overcome. They may attempt to climb over the crib railing or explore their surroundings, leading to disrupted sleep patterns. To ensure safety, it is recommended to keep the crib mattress at its lowest setting or transition to a toddler bed with side rails. Creating a safe sleep environment is crucial to accommodate their increased mobility.
Additionally, emotional and cognitive developments play a role in sleep regression. As emotional reactions deepen, separation anxiety may develop, impacting sleep patterns. Toddlers also experience significant cognitive advancements, which can lead to a stronger sense of independence and resistance to bedtime routines.
To improve sleep regression related to increased mobility, it is essential to establish consistent bedtime routines and sleep schedules. Creating a comfortable and secure sleep environment can help toddlers feel safe and regulate their sleep. It is also beneficial to be responsive to their needs, understand their cues, and provide reassurance when they wake up during the night.
While increased mobility can disrupt sleep patterns, it is a normal part of an 18-month-old toddler's development. By reinforcing positive sleep habits and ensuring a safe sleep environment, parents and caregivers can help their toddlers navigate through this phase and improve their sleep quality.
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Changes in routine
At 18 months, toddlers are typically transitioning from two naps per day to one afternoon nap. This transition can cause temporary disruptions in their sleep routine. It is important to be mindful of your toddler's unique sleep needs and adjust their nap schedule accordingly. Some toddlers may still benefit from two naps, while others may be ready for just one.
Additionally, at this age, toddlers are becoming more mobile and independent. They are curious and eager to explore their surroundings, which may lead to them trying to "break out" of their cribs. To ensure their safety, it is recommended to remove any objects they could use to climb out, such as toys or bumper pads, and lower the crib mattress to its lowest setting. If they persist in climbing out, consider transitioning them to a toddler bed or a "big kid" bed with side rails for added safety.
Another aspect of their changing routine could be their bedtime habits. Toddlers at this age may start to associate sleep with independence and begin protesting bedtime or naptime. They may also experience separation anxiety, becoming concerned when left alone to sleep. It is important to provide reassurance and calmly model appropriate behaviours to help them develop healthy sleep habits.
Furthermore, external factors such as screen time, noise levels, and room temperature can impact their sleep. Reducing screen time before bed, creating a quiet and comfortable sleep environment, and adjusting their clothing or bedding according to the season can promote better sleep.
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Frequently asked questions
It could be that your toddler is going through the common 18-month sleep regression. This is a temporary phase where toddlers may experience sleep disruptions due to various factors, including increased mobility, cognitive development, and separation anxiety.
Common signs include fussiness, nighttime awakenings, and more daytime naps or resistance to napping. Your toddler may also exhibit signs of increased independence and a stronger desire to explore, which can sometimes interfere with sleep.
The duration varies, typically lasting anywhere from two to six weeks, but it can be shorter or longer depending on the child. Some toddlers may not experience it at all, while others may go through it more than once.
Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine and sleep schedule is essential. You can also provide comfort items like small soft blankets or stuffed animals, known as "lovies," to help your toddler feel secure. Additionally, ensure the sleep environment is comfortable and free from excessive noise or distractions.
At this age, most toddlers transition from two naps to one afternoon nap, typically sleeping around 11 to 14 hours in a 24-hour period. This includes 10 to 12 hours of nighttime sleep and 1.5 to 3 hours of daytime sleep.
