Parents of 18-month-olds have experienced many ups and downs in their baby's sleep journey: the restless nights of the 4th trimester, the excitement of the first long stretch of sleep, and the thrill of the longer wake windows to spend together during the day.
But, if sleep is suddenly starting to seem off, you may start wondering “Is there an 18-month sleep regression.” The answer is, yes, babies often experience an 18-month sleep regression.
We understand this may be frustrating to hear – who wants another sleep regression, right?! But rest assured that there are ways to manage and survive an 18-month sleep regression. This article will explain how and answer common questions, including, “How long is a sleep regression?” and “How can I manage the 18-month sleep regression?”
While you're navigating the 18-month sleep regression consider taking this FREE Sleep Assessment to get a personalized sleep plan that will combat your baby's sleep challenges.
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What is the 18-Month Sleep Regression?
Sleep regressions are when your baby is sleeping well for long periods of time and then suddenly, one night, wakes up randomly. And again the next night. And the next. That unexpected disruption of their sleep pattern – is basically known as a sleep regression.
Sleep regressions coincide with your baby's developmental milestones. For that reason, sleep regressions can often be referred to as sleep progressions. And because they are so closely related to your baby's development they tend to come in waves – there's one at 4 months, another sleep regression around 8 or 9 months, 12 months, and, yes, around 18-months.
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What Causes The 18-Month Sleep Regression?
Coinciding with big milestones, sleep regressions are caused by the many changes happening in your baby's body and mind. This is sometimes teething or a growth spurt, which can be uncomfortable, or the sleep regression is caused by your baby's excitement to learn new things.
The 18-month sleep regression is the same: your baby's motor skills are improving, they're learning how the world works, and, most importantly for this regression, their personalities are growing, too. They're more individual than ever – and they know it! Essentially this regression is all about exercising their self-agency, testing boundaries and figuring out what the rules are!
18-month developmental milestones that cause sleep regression:
Social:
- Point to objects
- Help you dress or wash them by putting their hands or feet out
- Flips through a book with you
Communication:
- Trying to say new words
- Follows directions, such as "Give me the toy."
Learning Milestones:
- Mimics what you do, like chores
- Understands how simple toys work
Physical Milestones:
- Walks without support
- Holds a crayon or marker to scribble
- Drinks from a cup - with a few spills here and there.
- Feeds themselves with their fingers
All of these changes are exciting for your baby – far more exciting than sleep.
Individualism = vocal protest during sleep regression
Unlike some earlier sleep regressions, your baby is now familiar with the word, “No.” They're also understanding their individualism and may want to test boundaries, such as during bedtime.
While these can be frustrating moments, remember that it's temporary and will pass. We also recommend taking some time to yourself. (The Smart Sleep Coach by Pampers™ app subscription includes some incredible mini meditations that will keep you centered, positive, and confident in any challenging time – including the 18-month sleep regression).
Does Separation Anxiety Cause the 18-Month Sleep Regression?
Yes, the 18-month sleep regression can be triggered by separation anxiety. Since your baby developed object permanence at around 8/9-months (This means they understand things and people still exist even when they're out of sight) – they may wake at night, not see you, and cry out because they miss you. What's important is not to reinforce it, but following your preferred sleep training approach (see how to get through it below).
Signs of the 18-Month Sleep Regression
Your baby may be going through the 18-month regression if you notice them:
- Waking up at night
- Resisting bedtime or naps
- Sleeping longer during naptime
- Being cranky at bedtime.
But the 18 months sleep regression often comes with another sign:
Head banging during sleep regression
Head banging against the crib mattress or crib be startling, but it's a normal ways for babies to comfort themselves. The American Academy of Pediatric says that head banging is one of the most common habits for babies and toddlers, like thumb sucking.
At 18-months, your baby is still learning language and how to react to challenges – like struggling with sleep. Therefore head banging can also be a way of expressing themselves. They could be overtired, frustrated, and overwhelmed – or even just want your attention.
If you're conerned abotu head banging during 18-month sleep regression, speak with your healthcare provider to see if they have additional advice.
How Long Do 18-Month Sleep Regressions Last?
Typically the 18-month sleep regression can be as brief as 2 weeks or go on for up 6 weeks. Luckily there are ways to navigate the18-month sleep regression quickly.
How to Navigate an 18-Month Sleep Regression
- Maintain Your Bedtime Routine: Calm, consistent routines are the cornerstone of healthy baby sleep – that's why they're one of the first parts of sleep coaching. Whether experiencing a sleep regression or not, keeping the routine in place can work wonders. (And if you're just starting your sleep journey the Smart Sleep Coach by Pampers™ will help you create a sleep routine for your baby.)
- Have Your Baby Help: Since your baby understands more now, involve them in their sleep routine by asking them to pick their pajamas or a book. This helps them feel more “grown up” and can distract from potential protests. If they still protest, make the choice for them. For example, if you're selecting a book, present the choices: “The Very Hungry Caterpillar or I Love You to The Moon and Back.” If your baby says “no,” you can reply, “Well, I love you to the moon, so I think that one is perfect” – and go along with your routine.
- Wait It Out: While the 18-month sleep regression can last up to a few weeks, the actual nightly or daily time is brief: your baby wakes up and then ideally helps themselves fall back asleep. If your baby wakes up at night, wait a moment to see if they can put themselves back to sleep. If your baby has never been able to fall asleep without support, then they may still need to develop that very important skill. Sleep training with an app like the Smart Sleep Coach by Pampers™ will help you boost your baby's natural self-soothing powers.
- Low Voice, Low Light: If you check on your baby, keep the lights low, and your voice, too. Too much light or activity will wake them more.
- Try Sleep Training: Revisiting your baby's sleep coaching method and use it to help you manage the 18-month sleep regression. If you are worried about sleep training a toddler, Smart Sleep Coach can help guide you through it, too.
- Limit Screen Time: Screens stimulate babies and adults alike. For that reason, it's best to limit your baby's exposure to a TV or smartphone time before bed. This will help calm them for the rest ahead.
- Reassure Them: You can help soothe your baby's separation anxiety by reminding them you're right down the hall. A fun way to alleviate separation anxiety in your baby is by playing “I'll be right back”. To do this, place them in a safe space, 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 your baby that all is well if you leave and that, yes, you will always return. You can increase your baby's “alone endurance” by steadily increasing the amount of time you step away.
- Check the Diaper: If your baby's diaper is too small or too big, they may feel wet or uncomfortable, which can further affect their sleep. Take the Pampers My Perfect Fit quiz to get your little one's perfect size – we especially love Swaddlers at night for babies as they are leak free for up to 12 hours.
Learn more about how to deal with sleep regression
Is It Too Late to Sleep Train an 18-Month-Old?
No. It's never too late to sleep coach, even a toddler. If you want to try, or want a new method that really works, simply download the Smart Sleep Coach by Pampers™. Co-developed with pediatric sleep experts, this easy-to-use app will guide you through the 18-month sleep regression and more.
Final Thoughts
Like all regressions, your baby's 18-month regression is temporary. In frustrating times, remind yourself this will be over soon and your baby is just going through some monumental changes! Also, take this time to remind yourself how much you've grown as a parent, too – raising a baby is hard, and you should be proud.
