Is it common to experience a sleep regression at 18 months when you thought it was all over?

Yes it is. However, this isn’t technically a sleep regression.

You are most likely experiencing issues due to awake times and dropping naps. At 18 months your baby can stay up a lot longer in-between naps and sometimes us tired mamas don’t get the memo!

So, to repeat this is NOT a sleep regression.

This is an indication that it’s time to adjust your sleep schedule.

Your child can now stay awake for longer in-between naps. They do not need as much sleep as they did when they were a baby.

Signs your toddler is ready to drop their second nap:

1. They resist the nap and don’t fall asleep for thirty minutes or longer after being put down to sleep.

2. They do not seem tired.

3. Their nap time has become later and later.

4. They begin waking up at night when they slept through before.

5. You monitor them and notice they are doing all the above every night for two weeks.

Why two weeks?

By waiting for two weeks you ensure this is not just a one off wake up or a temporary sleep disturbance.

It is common for toddlers to sometimes fight naps or experience bouts of separation anxiety at this age.

So, if you drop the nap before you’ve given time to check whether they really are ready you could end up with an overtired child!

What to do to survive the 18 month regression

• Observe your baby’s nap and bed times including total duration, how long it takes them to go to sleep and their awake windows in-between for two weeks

• Consider dropping the second nap if your baby meets all the above criteria consistently for two weeks

• Lengthen your baby’s awake windows to make sure they are tired enough, ensuring the longest time they are awake for is between their final nap and bedtime (this creates enough sleep pressure to ensure a full night’s sleep)

• Be strong! You’re doing amazing and so is your baby.

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