The 18-Month Sleep Regression: Why It Happens and How to Survive It

 

Just when you thought you were done with sleepless nights, it happens. Your perfect sleeper, who has been snoozing for 11 hours straight, suddenly starts screaming at bedtime. They throw their pacifier, rattle the crib bars, and refuse to nap.

Welcome to the 18-Month Sleep Regression. It is arguably the hardest sleep disruption in the toddler years, but it is also a sign of healthy brain development.

Why is this happening?

It isn't because your child is being "bad." It is because their brain is exploding with new skills.

  1. Independence: Your toddler has realized they are their own person. Screaming "NO" at bedtime is their way of exercising control over their life.

  2. Teething: The sharp canine teeth and large molars often erupt around this age, causing jaw pain that flares up at night.

  3. Separation Anxiety: Their imagination is growing. They can now imagine you leaving the room, and they understand that you are "gone," which can be scary.

How to Survive It (Without Losing Your Mind)

  • Don't Drop the Nap: Many parents think, "Oh, they aren't tired, let's stop the nap." Wrong. An overtired toddler actually sleeps worse because their body produces adrenaline to stay awake. Keep the nap time consistent, even if they just lie there quietly.

  • The "Check-In" Method: If they are screaming, you can go in to reassure them.

    • Go in, keep the lights off.

    • Pat their back and say a boring script like, "It is sleep time. I love you."

    • Leave immediately.

    • Do not pick them up or bring them into your bed unless you want to start a new habit that will take years to break.

  • Wait It Out: This phase usually lasts 2 to 4 weeks. If you stay consistent with your boundaries, they will go back to sleeping normally.

FAQ: Toddler Sleep

  • Should I switch to a toddler bed now? No! Keep them in the crib as long as possible (until age 3 if you can). Switching to a bed during a regression usually makes things worse because they can get out and walk to your room.

  • Is it night terrors? If your child is screaming but seems asleep or doesn't recognize you, it might be a night terror. In that case, don't wake them; just sit nearby to ensure they are safe.

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