18 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 18 month regression?

At this point, you could be a pro when it comes to detecting regressions.This particular regression can be tough because toddlers are striving for independence, decision-making, and testing boundaries.

Why does this regression happen?

The regression you are experiencing with your toddler's sleep can be attributed to their significant mental growth and learning new skills. Two notable developmental changes that could be occurring at this stage are their new sense of independence and their discovery of the word "no". You might find they say no to absolutely everything and sleep is definitely one of those things they might start objecting to.

They now understand that an action has a reaction. They have now grasped the idea that if they do something or act a certain way, they can influence others and can expect a reaction. Signs of this? ◦ Getting excited when they do something funny and you laugh: This demonstrates your toddler's awareness of their ability to evoke a positive response from you.

◦ Looking upset when they do something naughty and you show a negative response: Your toddler's reaction of appearing upset or sensitive to a negative response indicates their recognition of your disapproval.

So why does sleep become a struggle?

These new skills and observations are a huge accomplishment for your baby and learning new things can be exhilarating for them. The reason sleep is disrupted during this regression is because they are so excited about their new achievements. These new skills and observations are a huge accomplishment for your baby and the process of learning and discovering new things can be exhilarating for them. Their excitement about their newfound abilities can make it difficult for them to sleep/

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. 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 18-month regression

◦ Running

◦ Climbing

◦ Following simple commands

◦ Imitating things you do

◦ Vocabulary increasing

◦ Teething

◦ Major physical growth spurt

◦ Separation anxiety AGAIN

How to navigate the 18 month sleep regression

Allow for some decision making

They've probably been able to follow and understand commands for a few weeks or months, but now they expect a reaction from you. They learn about boundaries based on how you react. Continue to let them make simple decisions, and they're most likely now able to verbalise what they want instead of pointing or making noises. You might also find them lingering around waiting for your reaction when it comes to their decision-making.

Introduce gentle sleep training if needed

They aren't too old to sleep train. They can be somewhat a little more challenging due to their peak in independence and objections but my resources can most certainly help you through 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 18 months of age, wake windows typically range from approximately 5-6 hours, with the expectation of having one nap during the day. It is important to ensure that the last nap of the day is capped at 3pm 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 things you can do to fill out their wake windows:

◦ Go for a walk outside.

◦ Collect leaves in Autumn or flowers and then glue them on paper to make a book.

◦ Encourage time at a park where they can climb and learn how to play on obstacles.

◦ Play a game of cards, for example, "bird" and lay out one card being a bird and another being a cat OR "apple" and lay out a card with grapes and the other with an apple. Show lots of praise if they guess correctly.

◦ Play hide-and-seek.

Limit screen time

At this age, some children may start to show interest in electronic devices like iPads or TVs. While these devices can provide entertainment and educational content, it's important to limit their usage and avoid exposing children to screens too close to bedtime. Electronic devices emit blue light, which can suppress the production of melatonin (the sleep homrone) and the exposure to blue close to bedtime can make it more difficult for children to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Encourage routine

Maintaining a consistent routine for your toddler can provide a sense of stability and control, even as they try to push boundaries during this stage. While it's natural for them to attempt to prolong their bedtime routine or introduce new steps, it's essential to establish some limits if you feel they are intentionally trying to avoid sleep altogether. It's important to strike a balance between meeting their requests and maintaining healthy sleep habits. If you notice their attempts to prolong the bedtime routine, it may be necessary to gently set limits. Clear communication and consistency will help reinforce the boundaries while still allowing for some flexibility within the routine.

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.