12 Month sleep regression

What is a regression?

Sleep regressions occur when there are developmental progressions happening in your baby's life. These regressions coincide with the proper physical, cognitive, and emotional development of your baby.

What is the 12 month regression?

While celebrating your baby's first birthday, you may also notice a dip in their sleep patterns. This is quite common as they go through new developmental milestones during this time.

It's important to remember that regressions are actually a positive sign of progress. They indicate that your baby is reaching important milestones in their growth and development. While it may temporarily disrupt their sleep, it is a normal part of their journey.

The good news is that after this particular regression, you can expect a bit of a break before the next one, which typically occurs around the 18-month mark.

Why does this regression happen?

This regression occurs because your baby is undergoing significant mental growth and learning new physical skills. At this stage, your little one is becoming more aware of the exciting world around them and the world is pretty big! As they become more aware of the world around them, this can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, which can result in disrupted sleep patterns and increased tiredness.

So why does sleep become a struggle?

These new skills and observations are a huge achievement for your baby, and they can find the process of learning and discovering exhilarating. Your baby may be so captivated by all the fascinating things happening around them that they might resist going to sleep, thinking, "Why would I want to sleep when there's so much to explore and experience on planet Earth?"

How long will this regression last

Sleep regressions can usually last anywhere between 2-4 weeks. Hang in there! They're going through so much right now, all they need is consistency and the chance to work on these new skills. Sleep regressions typically last anywhere between 2-4 weeks. Hang in there! They're going through so much right now. What they need most during this time is consistency and the opportunity to practice and work on their new skills. Remember that it is a temporary phase, and with patience, you can help your child through this challenging time.

Signs of a regression

◦ Fussiness at bedtime

◦ Multiple night wakings

◦ Early rising

◦ Fights naptime

◦ Short naps

◦ Changes in appetite

◦ Clinginess

What else is happening during the 12 month regression

◦ They are having another major physical growth spurt

◦ Feeling overstimulated by the outside world

◦ Experiencing separation anxiety, again

◦ Following and understanding simple commands

◦ A few more teething coming through

◦ Becoming more mobile with their first steps approaching

◦ Talking, or soon to be talking

◦ CHANGE, so much change! As soon as a baby turns one, they enter the toddler stage, and with it comes a series of adjustments. For instance, there are shifts in their diet as they transition from formula to milk and start using cups instead of bottles.

How to navigate the 12 month sleep regression

Avoid transition to one nap

As mentioned above, the various transitions occurring during this regression can disrupt your toddler's sleep. It is common for parents to consider dropping their toddler's second nap when they notice a some resisting with their second nap. However, it's important to note that most toddlers are not ready to transition to one nap until they reach around 13-15 months of age. So, it's important to hang in there and understand that the sleep disturbances are primarily due to the 12-month regression and not an indication to drop a nap prematurely.

Allow for some decision making

Now that your toddler is able to follow and understand commands, it's important to keep things simple. Allow them to make small decisions, even if they may not be able to verbally express their choice yet. They can use gestures, sounds, or pointing to indicate their preference. To avoid overwhelming them, always present two options. For example, you can ask, "Do you want strawberries or grapes?" or "Do you want the pink or yellow pajamas?" You can also use this approach when offering snacks, such as asking, "Do you want this cookie or this one?" By providing limited choices, you empower your toddler to feel in control while making the decision-making process more manageable for them.

Introduce gentle sleep training if needed

If your toddler has not yet learned to fall asleep without assistance, it's not too late to work on this.My guides have helped toddlers up to the age of two with many successes. If you're seeking help, I have a downloadable sleep guide and optional plans, which can provide the guidance and support needed to establish solid naps and 10-12 hour nights of sleep. To be re-directed to the 4-24 month sleep guide and plans, you can click here.

Aim for age-appropriate wake windows and other sleep guides

Around 12 months, wake windows are typically around 4 hours, and most toddlers still need 2 naps during the day. It's important to ensure that the last nap of the day ends by 4pm to avoid interfering with bedtime. If you find it difficult to expand your child's wake windows, taking them outside can be helpful. Sunlight exposure can provide a natural energy boost because the sunlight suppresses melatonin production(the sleep hormone). Additionally, the outdoor environment can provide sensory stimulation with its vibrant colors and soothing sounds of nature, helping to keep your little one alert and engaged.

Ensure they consume enough calories during the day

To eliminate hunger as a possible cause of sleep disruptions, it's important to ensure that your baby is consuming feeds regularly. Aim to feed your baby every 2.5 to 3 hours during the day, with a maximum interval of 4 hours between feeds.

Use the day wisely

Taking advantage of the day! Practising any new skills during awake times will make your baby be less likely to be overly excited or stimulated at bedtime.

Some suggestions are the same as the 8-10 month regression.

Head over to the 8 - 10 month sleep regression section and review the tips on playing peek-a-boo, not sneaking away, saying goodbye, and avoiding lingering. These suggestions are also applicable during this regression period.

Encourage routine

Maintaining a routine is indeed important for babies and can provide them with a sense of security and predictability. Having a consistent daily schedule helps regulate their sleep patterns and overall behavior. It's beneficial to establish regular mealtimes, nap times, playtimes, and bedtime routines.

Consistency

It's is crucial to maintain consistency with your child's established routine. Even though regressions can be challenging, it's important to resist the temptation of introducing new habits or making significant changes to their sleep routine. Regressions are temporary phases, but the habits formed during this time can persist.

Do you need help?

Did you know if your baby has a strong sleep foundation, the chances of sleep being disrupted during developmental changes decrease significantly?

I have the tools and resources to help you. I have guides and optional plans that can give you that one-on-one support you need.

Written by Alexandra Selekos I'm the founder of Babee Dreams, a certified sleep consultant and a mum of three. My approach is based on studies, training through The Sleep Consulting Academy, successful outcomes experienced by those who have used my methods and the instincts of a mother. My approach will help your baby achieve their best sleep, whilst always feeling reassured, loved and never neglected.