Sleep regressions in toddlers: What to do

Sleep regressions in young children: Strategies to regain calm

Many parents breathe a sigh of relief when their baby outgrows the newborn stage, thinking the hardest part is over. However, around 18 months, 2 years, or even later, the sleep that seemed settled becomes disorganized again. Bedtime protests, prolonged awakenings in the early morning, and rejection of naps reappear.

If you are experiencing this, the first thing you should know is that you are not doing anything wrong: you are experiencing a sleep regression.

Why does sleep change in older children?

Unlike the first few months of life, baby sleep coaching in toddlers faces very different challenges. At this age, your child's brain is experiencing a developmental explosion:

• Language and imagination development: The first fears appear (of the dark, of monsters).

  
  

• Seeking autonomy: Your child begins to understand that he or she is an independent individual and will want to test the limits ("I don't want to sleep!").

  
  

• Separation anxiety: The fear of missing out on something or being separated from you at night may intensify.

  
  

How can a Gentle Sleep Coach help you manage these changes?

When a family comes to our sleep consultancy frustrated because their 2-year-old takes two hours to fall asleep, the approach is never rigidity. The role of a gentle sleep coach is to guide you in setting clear but deeply loving boundaries.

To overcome this stage, I recommend:

1. Maintain consistency: Don't change the rules of the game in the middle of the night; children need predictability to feel safe.

2. Validate their emotions: If they are afraid or frustrated, be there for them, but keep in mind that rest is necessary.

3. Review sleep windows: Sometimes, refusing to go to bed is simply because the daytime nap was too late or because you need to adjust your schedule.

   
   

Remember that sleep changes as your child grows, but with the right tools, transitions can be smooth and respectful.