Miya Pearson
Sleep regression is a common phenomenon among toddlers, and it can be frustrating for parents when their child suddenly starts struggling with sleep after months of reliable bedtimes. Sleep regression at 22 months could be due to various reasons, such as newfound independence, the arrival of a new sibling, teething pain, or simply their rapidly developing brain. It's important to remember that this is a normal part of toddler development and there are strategies to help your little one get a good night's rest.
Why is my 22-month-old not sleeping?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Climbing out of the crib | Your child may be physically able to climb out of their crib, which can cause sleep disturbances and safety concerns. |
| Sleep regression | Your toddler may be experiencing a sleep regression, which is common at this age. This can include resistance to bedtime, increased night waking, and early morning wakings. |
| Teething | The eruption of 2-year molars can cause discomfort and pain, impacting your toddler's sleep. |
| Increased independence | Your child's growing desire for independence can lead to bedtime challenges, such as refusing to sleep or stalling bedtime. |
| Developmental changes | Your toddler's brain is undergoing significant developmental changes, which can affect their sleep patterns. They are learning new physical skills, developing cognitively, and their imagination is blossoming. |
| Sibling rivalry | The arrival of a new baby can lead to feelings of jealousy and regression to older behaviors such as thumb-sucking or increased clinginess. |
| Fear | Toddlers at this age may develop new fears, such as a fear of the dark, which can contribute to sleep disturbances. |
| Schedule adjustments | Changes in your toddler's schedule, such as starting a new school or daycare, can impact their sleep patterns. |
| Illness | Illness or other physical discomfort can disrupt your toddler's sleep. |
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What You'll Learn
Your toddler may be experiencing the 2-year sleep regression
Sleep regression at the age of 2 is not uncommon. If your 22-month-old is not sleeping, they may be experiencing the 2-year sleep regression. This is when a child who was otherwise sleeping well begins to have certain sleep difficulties. This could manifest as a resistance to bedtime, shorter or disrupted naps, increased night waking, and waking up too early in the morning.
At 2 years old, toddlers are experiencing significant development, including leaps in their physical abilities, language skills, and social abilities. With this new complexity often comes new fears, such as an age-appropriate fear of the dark or scary imaginations, which can cause sleep disturbances. They are also going through huge cognitive changes, which lead to increased memory, blossoming imagination, growing independence, and sometimes testing limits. Their growing independence may also cause them to stall at bedtime, as they will seize any opportunity to exert their newfound power. They may ask for a snack, to use the bathroom, for more stories, or more cuddles—anything to postpone saying "goodnight".
Additionally, at this age, toddlers are supposed to explore their world and test boundaries, which can interfere with sleep. They may also be experiencing major changes to their family dynamics, such as the introduction of a sibling, which can lead to behavior changes and sleep disturbances. Other life changes, such as starting school or potty training, can also impact sleep. Furthermore, many toddlers are getting their 2-year molars, which might be uncomfortable or painful, impacting their ability to sleep peacefully.
It's important to remember that the 2-year sleep regression is a normal and temporary phase. There are some strategies you can try to help your toddler through this time, such as ensuring their basic needs are met, solving any environmental issues causing bedtime problems, and making small tweaks to their bedtime routine.
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They may be jealous of a new baby in the house
It is common for toddlers to experience sleep regression around their second birthday. This can manifest as a change in sleeping habits, such as refusing to go to bed, waking up during the night, resisting naps, or getting up too early. Sleep regression can be caused by various factors, including developmental milestones, new fears, teething pain, and changes in family dynamics, such as the arrival of a new baby.
If you have recently welcomed a new baby into the family, your 22-month-old toddler may be experiencing jealousy and seeking more attention from you. This is a normal reaction, and there are several strategies you can implement to help your toddler adjust and improve their sleep habits. Firstly, ensure that your toddler feels secure and comfortable in their bedroom. Encourage positive associations with their room by playing together there and considering a "camp-out" night. If your toddler climbs out of their crib, enhance their safety by lowering the crib mattress, removing any objects they could use to climb out, or transitioning them to a toddler-sized bed with side rails or a mattress on the floor.
To address feelings of jealousy, dedicate special one-on-one time with your toddler to strengthen your bond and make them feel valued. Additionally, involve your older child in the care of the new baby whenever possible. For example, during bath time, let your toddler hold the towels or help soap the baby. With your supervision, they can also hold the baby's bottle or retrieve a pacifier when the baby cries. By including your toddler in the baby's care, you can help them feel important and foster a sense of responsibility.
Sleep regression can also be influenced by your toddler's desire for independence. To navigate this phase, strike a balance between supporting their independence and maintaining boundaries. While you can offer limited choices, such as letting them decide between two pyjama options, consistently enforce the overall bedtime routine. If your toddler tries to delay bedtime, set clear expectations and gently but firmly guide them back to their room.
Remember that sleep regression is a normal part of your toddler's development. By creating a safe and loving environment, addressing feelings of jealousy, and encouraging healthy sleep habits, you can help your 22-month-old navigate this transition and improve their sleep.
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They may be climbing out of their crib
If your 22-month-old toddler is not sleeping, it may be because they are climbing out of their crib. This is a common childhood problem and can be caused by several factors. Toddlers may climb out of their cribs as they develop new physical and cognitive skills, such as increased strength, agility, and problem-solving abilities. They may also be testing boundaries and exploring their independence.
To prevent your toddler from climbing out of their crib, there are several strategies you can try. Firstly, ensure that there is nothing in or around the crib that can help them get over the edge, such as furniture or toys. You can also lower the crib mattress to the lowest possible setting to make it harder for your toddler to climb out. Another option is to use a sleep sack, which restricts your child's leg movement and makes it more difficult for them to swing a leg over the crib. Additionally, positive reinforcement can be effective. Praise your child when they stay in their crib and avoid discussing crib climbing.
If your toddler consistently climbs out of the crib, it may be a sign that the crib is no longer safe or suitable for them. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends transitioning out of a crib once your child is 35 inches tall, which typically happens between 18 and 24 months. However, most toddlers are not ready for a toddler bed until they are at least 3 years old, as they may lack the impulse control to stay alone in an unenclosed sleep space. If you decide to transition to a big bed, ensure that the room is childproofed and free of potential hazards.
It's important to remember that every child is unique and develops at their own pace. Some toddlers may start climbing out of their cribs before their first birthday, while others may never attempt to climb out. If you're concerned about your toddler's sleep habits, consider seeking professional advice or consulting a sleep training specialist.
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They may be overtired from pushing their bedtime later and later
Sleep regression is common at several ages, including 4 months, 8 months, 18 months, and 2 years. The "2-year-old sleep regression" is a sudden change in sleep patterns that can include resistance at bedtime, fighting naps, increased night waking, and waking too early in the morning.
If your 22-month-old is pushing their bedtime later and later, they may be overtired, which can make it difficult for them to calm down and fall asleep. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as:
- Teething: The eruption of 2-year molars can cause discomfort or pain, impacting their sleep.
- Developmental changes: Your toddler's brain is undergoing significant development, including cognitive changes, increased independence, and a newfound sense of self-expression. These changes can interfere with sleep patterns.
- Family dynamics: The introduction of a new sibling or any major life event can trigger sleep disturbances.
- Fear: At this age, toddlers may develop age-appropriate fears of the dark or imaginary monsters, affecting their sleep.
- Exploration and boundary-testing: Toddlers are naturally curious and begin to test boundaries, which can sometimes disrupt their sleep.
- Physical abilities: Your toddler is experiencing a leap in physical abilities, such as jumping, climbing, and throwing. This increased activity may impact their sleep patterns.
- Separation anxiety: While it may not last long, separation anxiety can still be a factor. Your toddler might be more clingy and want a parent to be present until they fall asleep.
To help your 22-month-old sleep better, consider the following:
- Stick to a consistent bedtime routine: A predictable routine can help your toddler feel more secure and ready for sleep.
- Address any discomfort: Ensure your child is fed, dry, and comfortable before bed. If teething is an issue, consider appropriate pain relief or teething toys.
- Create a safe sleep environment: If your toddler can climb out of their crib, consider lowering the mattress or transitioning to a toddler-sized bed with side rails or a mattress on the floor.
- Encourage independence: While providing comfort and support, also encourage your toddler to take on small independent tasks, such as getting into their pajamas.
- Manage their energy levels: Keep your toddler active during the day, but avoid overstimulation close to bedtime.
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They may be experiencing fear of the dark or other scary things
Sleep regression is common in toddlers and can occur at multiple points during the first year, including at 4, 6, 8, and 12 months. They are also common in the second year, at 15, 18, 24, and 36 months. Sleep regression at 24 months is often referred to as the "2-year-old sleep regression." This is a time when toddlers are learning new things and developing new skills, which can make it difficult for them to sleep well at night.
At 22 months, your toddler is going through significant cognitive, physical, and social development. They are learning new physical skills, such as jumping, climbing, and throwing or kicking balls. They are also engaging in more focused play, such as puzzles and taking turns. Their vocabulary is rapidly expanding, and they are starting to understand that they have some power in the world, which can lead to bedtime negotiations and stalling tactics.
One reason your 22-month-old may be experiencing sleep regression is due to fear of the dark or other scary things. As their imagination develops, toddlers can start to experience age-appropriate fears. Ensure that your child feels safe and that their basic needs are met. You can try playing in their bedroom more often so they associate it with positive experiences, or appoint a stuffed animal as their "watch pet" to provide comfort at night.
It's important to remember that sleep regressions are temporary and usually resolve within a few days to several weeks. During this time, it's crucial to remain consistent with routines and boundaries. While it may be tempting to introduce new habits, this can lead to long-term struggles. Instead, make small tweaks to their bedtime routine, such as lowering the crib mattress or transitioning to a toddler-sized bed if they are climbing out of their crib.
Other factors that can contribute to sleep regression include teething pain, especially when the 2-year molars start to come in, and family dynamics changes, such as the introduction of a new sibling.
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Frequently asked questions
It could be due to the 2-year-old sleep regression, which is a common phase where toddlers experience a sudden change in sleep patterns, including resistance at bedtime, fighting naps, increased night waking, and waking too early.
Signs include waking up at night, taking longer to settle at bedtime, delaying bedtime by asking for things, reducing nap time, and waking up earlier than usual.
Sleep regressions related to developmental progression are usually temporary, lasting from a few days to several weeks.
Here are some suggestions:
- Ensure your toddler is fed, dry, and safe before putting them to bed.
- Create a peaceful bedtime routine and stick to it.
- Make small tweaks to the bedtime routine, allowing your child to make some decisions along the way.
- Play in their bedroom to associate it with positive experiences.
- Address any underlying issues such as teething pain, fear of the dark, or separation anxiety.
- Involve your toddler in caring for a new baby in the house, if applicable.
