If you’re a parent of an 18-month-old, you likely have experienced many ups and downs when it comes to their sleep. With around-the-clock feedings and multiple nap transitions behind you, you may have thought your journey to sleeping through the night has finally ended. But, even if you’ve enjoyed weeks or even months of restful nights, you could soon start hearing your 18-month-old crying uncontrollably at night – again.
If you're wondering, “Is there an 18-month sleep regression?” the answer is...yes. And that’s likely the cause of a sudden disruption in your toddler’s sleep.
We understand this may be frustrating to hear but, rest assured, just like you got through the 4-, 8-, and 12-month regression, you will get through another few weeks of your 18 month old fighting naps, waking often at night, and screaming at bedtime.
In this article we’ll answer common questions about the 18 month old sleep regression such as “How long does the 18 month sleep regression last?” and “What are the 18 month sleep regression signs?” We’ll also give you practical, parent-tested advice on how to handle the 18-month regression and get back to those calm, quiet, sleep-full nights you’ve missed.
If you haven’t taken this free sleep assessment, do it now to get a personalized sleep plan and schedule that – for many – is the answer to how to get an 18 month old to sleep.
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What is the 18 Month Sleep Regression?
The 18 month old sleep regression is when your toddler suddenly starts to wake up randomly or struggle to sleep after a period of sleeping well. This unexpected disruption in their sleep pattern is what is called a sleep regression. It sometimes can happen earlier around17-months-old or closer to 19-months-old.
This sleep regression coincides with the 18 month developmental sleep. That's because sleep regressions are related to major developmental milestones which tend to come in waves – there’s one at 4 months, another around 8 months, then 12 months, and, yes, 18-months. (There is a 24-month sleep regression, too)
With all the positive changes and growth happening around a sleep regression, many actually refer to it as a progression – even though sleep technically regresses for a short time.
18-Month Sleep Regression Signs
Common signs of an 18 month sleep regression include:
- 18 month old refusing naps
- 18 month old fighting bedtime
- 18 month old wakes up screaming
- 18 month old not sleeping through the night (anymore)
- 18 month old waking up early
- 18-month-old napping longer during the day
- 18 month old fussy at bedtime
- Head banging at night (This can be startling but can be a normal way for an overtired or frustrated 18-month-old to express themselves)
What Causes the 18-Month Sleep Regression?
Coinciding with big milestones, the 18-month-old regression is caused by the many changes happening in your toddler's cogitative and physical development. For example, the discomfort from teething, the excitement (or distraction) from learning new words, or continued separation anxiety.
One of the most impactful reasons during the 18 month regression is their blossoming personalities. They’re more capable of being independent than they’ve ever been – and they know it! Around now they are exercising their self-agency, testing boundaries, and figuring out what the rules are.
Here are some more about 18-month milestones and how they may affect 18-month-old sleep.
More about what causes the 18-month regression:
- Separation anxiety at 18 months and sleep: Your toddler knows that if you leave them in their bed, you likely are somewhere else doing something fun. This can cause FOMO – and also a little fear of being left alone.
- 18 month old night terrors or nightmares: With their little imaginations now running wild, nightmares at this age can cause some sleep disruptions. While night terrors are more common in ages 3-7, for some they begin as early as 18-months.
- Independence: Walking, pointing, starting to chat, pulling out toys, mimicking what you do – your toddler has lots to do and explore. This is way more exciting than being in their crib!
- Boundary pushing: Similarly, your 18-month-old screaming at bedtime could be to test your patience – and whether you’ll let them stay up later or have that extra book. They are also now familiar with the word “no" and want to know how far they can get by using it!
- Changing sleep schedule: Around now, an 18 month old bedtime and nap schedule could change depending on whether they have gone through the 2-1 nap transition, which usually happens by 18-months. By this age most toddlers sleep 12-14 hours a day, with about 11 hours at night and one 2-3 hour nap. Typically, an 18-month-old wake window is between 5 and 5.5 hours. Every child is unique though – some may need more sleep, some less. (Here’s more on whether it’s time to drop a nap)
While any disruption to your baby’s sleep can be frustrating, remember it’s temporary and will pass – and there are ways to shorten the regression and help get back on track. Download the Smart Sleep Coach by Pampers™ app to get a personalized step-by-step plan which includes an auto-adjusting schedule that tells you the exact time to put your 18-month-old to bed to give them a better chance of falling asleep quickly – and sleeping through the night.
How Long Does 18-Month Sleep Regression Last?
Typically sleep regressions, including the 18-month sleep regression, can be as brief as 2 weeks or as long as up to 6 weeks.
Read on for pediatric sleep consultant-approved ways to handle the 18-month sleep regression and get through it as quickly as possible.
How to Handle 18-Month Sleep Regression
Maintain your 18-month-old bedtime routine
A calm, consistent bedtime routine is the cornerstone of healthy sleep habits – and sticking to it is one of the best ways to navigate the 18 month sleep regression.
Even beyond a sleep regression, keeping the routine in place is proven to make it easier for babies and toddlers to sleep well at night and for naps. If you're struggling with creating a routine that sticks, take this free sleep assessment to get some additional support from sleep consultants.
Have your 18-month-old help
Since your toddler understands more now, involve them in their sleep routine by asking them to choose what pajamas to wear, song to sing, or book to read. This helps distract potential protests and makes them feel more in control.
If they still fight bedtime, help narrow down the choices for them. For example, give them two song options – here are our favorite 28 baby lullabies to choose from!
Wait it out
While the 18-month sleep regression can last up to a few weeks, the time they protest or cry, or take to fall asleep, may actually be shorter than other sleep regressions. This is because at this age they have usually developed the skill to fall back asleep without your help. So, if you hear your 18 month old crying in sleep or out for you, wait a moment to see if they can put themselves back to sleep before you go and accidentally stimulate them further.
Low voice, low light
If you check on your child, keep the lights low, and your voice, too. Too much light or activity will wake them more. If possible, keep them in their crib and gently soothe them back to sleep.
Review sleep training
Even if you’ve already sleep trained, you can revisit the sleep coaching method you used in the past, which will help get them back into their sleep routine.
If your toddler has never been able to fall asleep without support, they can still benefit from sleep training. Sleep training a toddler may be trickier though, as they have more willpower and negotiating skills than younger babies. For guidance on how to sleep train an 18 month old, download the Smart Sleep Coach by Pampers™ app. Built by pediatric sleep experts and healthcare providers, it can help you choose the best sleep training method for you and walk you step-by-step how to implement it.
Limit screen time
Screens stimulate babies, toddlers, and adults alike. For that reason, it’s best to limit exposure to a television, tablet, or smartphone close to bedtime.
Reassure them
You can help soothe separation anxiety or protests by reminding them you’re right down the hall. If separation anxiety is a concern, try playing “I’ll be right back”. To do this, when your toddler is happy during the day, place them in a safe space and say “I’ll be right back” and step out of sight for a minute or two. Then return and say, “I’m back!” This shows them that all is well if you leave and that, yes, you will always return.
Remember: “This too shall pass”
Like all regressions, your baby’s 18-month regression is temporary. If you are frustrated, remind yourself that soon their sleep will be back on track and another milestone – or progression – will be reached!
When to Talk to Healthcare Provider About 18 Month Old Sleep Regression?
If your toddler is struggling with sleep after a few weeks or seems to be having issues with sleep that are caused by illness or discomfort, speak to your healthcare provider. They also can give you tips personalized to your little one.
Final Thoughts
Sleep regressions are a normal, common, and healthy part of your toddler’s development. They are a sign of all the growth and progress they’ve made by the year and a half mark!
While the disruption in sleep can be exhausting for your household, with a bit of patience and consistency, you can both get through it quickly. We’re here if you need us – you got this!
