Just when you thought your toddler was sleeping through the night—bam! They start waking up again, refusing naps, or battling bedtime. This is called a sleep regression, and while it’s frustrating, it’s also normal. Understanding the causes and strategies can help you ride out this phase with more rest and less stress.
Dr. Jenna Thompson, Pediatric Sleep Specialist: “Sleep regressions are signs of growth. They usually align with major developmental leaps that temporarily disrupt sleep patterns.”
What Is Toddler Sleep Regression?
✔️ A period when a toddler who previously slept well starts having sleep problems
✔️ Common ages: 18 months and 2 years
✔️ Can last 2 to 6 weeks
What Causes Sleep Regression?
1. Developmental Milestones
✔️ Learning to talk, walk, or assert independence can lead to restless sleep
2. Separation Anxiety
✔️ Around 18–24 months, toddlers may resist being alone at night
3. Changes in Routine
✔️ Starting daycare, travel, illness, or teething can all disrupt sleep
4. Nap Transitions
✔️ Moving from two naps to one or resisting naps altogether
Signs of Sleep Regression
✔️ Increased night wakings
✔️ Trouble falling asleep at bedtime
✔️ Shorter or skipped naps
✔️ Early morning wake-ups
How to Handle Toddler Sleep Regression
1. Stay Consistent
✔️ Stick to the same bedtime and nap routine
✔️ Use calming rituals like a warm bath, quiet book, or lullaby
2. Offer Reassurance, Not Reinforcement
✔️ Comfort them briefly if they wake up, but avoid creating new habits like co-sleeping (unless that’s your preference)
✔️ Be gentle but firm
3. Keep Daytime Active
✔️ Make sure your toddler is getting enough stimulation and physical activity during the day
✔️ Avoid overstimulation close to bedtime
4. Limit Screen Time
✔️ No screens 1–2 hours before bedtime to protect melatonin levels
Dr. Elise Grant, Family Sleep Consultant: “During regressions, toddlers crave connection and reassurance. A steady, loving presence helps ease them back into restful sleep.”
When to Seek Help
✔️ If sleep issues persist longer than 6 weeks
✔️ If your toddler shows signs of anxiety or extreme overtiredness
✔️ Talk to your pediatrician or a certified sleep consultant
The Role of Moogco Silver Nursing Cups
If nighttime nursing is part of your toddler’s routine, sore nipples can make sleep regressions harder. Moogco Silver Nursing Cups provide natural antibacterial relief so you can continue nursing comfortably.
📌 Find them here: Moogco Silver Nursing Cups on Amazon
Final Thoughts: This Too Shall Pass
Toddler sleep regressions can be exhausting, but they’re temporary. Stay consistent, offer comfort, and trust that your toddler’s sleep will stabilize with time and support.
🛒 Explore sleep-support tools and parent resources at Moogco Baby.
