Sleep Regression in Toddlers

By the time your baby has grown into a toddler, you may think that you're long past the sleepless nights and bedtime struggles. Unfortunately, the reality is that sleep struggles can continue even into the preschool years. Toddlers can continue to have sleep regressions either because of developmental milestones or because of changes in the home that cause emotional distress. Learning to recognize sleep regressions can help you learn how to help your toddler overcome them.

  1. How Sleep Regression Manifests

    • There are many ways that sleep regression may manifest itself in your toddler, and you may not even recognize some of the signs if you aren't looking for them. According to The Sleep Lady, Kim West, toddlers experiencing sleep regression may start to show a resistance to sleep by fighting bedtime or nap time, may wake more frequently at night, and may take shorter naps or refuse to take a nap at all. Some more subtle signs may include changes in appetite or behavior, both of which can be affected by lower-quality sleep.

    Why Sleep Regression Happens

    • Toddlers experience a lot of developmental changes that can contribute to sleep regressions. According to the Baby Sleep Site, these may include teething, separation anxiety and the development of nighttime fears, such as being afraid of the dark. Toddlers are also beginning to assert their independence, and they may fight doing things they don't want to do, like go to sleep. Outside of these developmental changes, toddlers can also experience sleep regression as a result of changes in the home, such as the arrival of a new baby, the beginning of potty training or a divorce.

    When to Expect It

    • The Baby Sleep Site reports that there are two primary periods during which sleep regression occurs in toddlers: at approximately 18 months and 24 months. Both can happen within a range of a few months, such as between 17 and 19 months instead of right at 18 months. These regressions coincide with developmental changes that happen near the same time. Knowing that you can expect sleep regression during these periods can help you to better recognize the signs and to get your toddler back on track with sleep.

    How to Deal with Sleep Regression

    • In some cases, there may not be much you can do to "fix" sleep regression except wait it out. As West explains, sleep regressions are only temporary. They may last a few weeks or a few months, but they will end. Stick to your routines for nap and bedtime and be persistent. If your toddler is able to communicate, discuss the rules for nap time and bedtime, and then stick with them.

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