Ah, toddler sleep—the great mystery that keeps parents guessing (and yawning). Just when you think you’ve mastered bedtime, your little one decides that sleep is overrated. If your previously good sleeper is suddenly waking up at odd hours, refusing naps, or turning bedtime into a battle, you might be dealing with toddler sleep regression. But don’t worry, mamy—this is just a phase, and we’re here to help you navigate it.
What is Toddler Sleep Regression?
Sleep regression is when a toddler who has been sleeping well suddenly starts waking up frequently, resisting naps, or struggling to fall asleep. It’s common at different ages, but a major one often occurs around 18 months and again at 2 years. It’s frustrating, yes, but it’s also a sign that big developmental leaps are happening.
Why Does Sleep Regression Happen?
Your toddler’s sleep can take a hit due to various reasons:
- Cognitive Development: Your little genius is learning new words, concepts, and skills. Their brain is buzzing, making it harder to wind down.
- Increased Independence: Toddlers love testing boundaries—bedtime included. Saying “no” to sleep is often their way of asserting control.
- Separation Anxiety: Around 18 months, many toddlers experience a fresh wave of separation anxiety, making bedtime feel like a lonely event.
- Teething or Growth Spurts: Those last molars love to make a dramatic entrance, often disrupting sleep.
- Transitioning from Crib to Bed: If your toddler has moved to a big-kid bed, the newfound freedom can lead to extra nighttime wanderings.
How to Handle Toddler Sleep Regression Like a Pro
- Stick to a Routine Toddlers thrive on consistency. Keep their bedtime routine predictable—bath, book, cuddles, bed. This signals their brain that it’s time to wind down.
- Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment Dim lights, white noise, and a cozy sleep setup can work wonders. A lovey or a favorite stuffed toy can provide comfort if separation anxiety is at play.
- Keep Sleep Associations Positive If your toddler needs rocking, patting, or co-sleeping to fall asleep, they might struggle when they wake up at night. Encourage self-soothing by putting them down drowsy but awake.
- Be Patient with Night Wakings When they wake up at night, keep interactions minimal and soothing. Avoid stimulating activities or turning on bright lights.
- Offer Choices (Within Limits) Toddlers love having a say. Offer small bedtime choices like, “Do you want to wear the blue pajamas or the red ones?” This gives them a sense of control without derailing bedtime.
- Encourage Daytime Activity A tired toddler is a sleepy toddler! Plenty of outdoor play, running around, and engaging activities can help burn off energy for better sleep.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t Introduce New Sleep Crutches – Rocking them to sleep every night might work short-term but could lead to dependency.
- Don’t Skip Naps – Overtired toddlers actually sleep worse at night. If they fight their nap, try quiet time instead.
- Don’t Panic – This phase is temporary. Stay consistent, and their sleep will eventually return to normal.
When to Seek Help
If sleep struggles last more than a few weeks, or if your toddler seems overly anxious or exhausted, check in with your pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues.
The Silver Lining
Yes, toddler sleep regression is exhausting. But it also means your little one is growing, learning, and developing in exciting ways. With patience, consistency, and lots of coffee (for you, not the toddler!), you’ll both get through this phase. And one day, you’ll actually sleep through the night again—promise!
