Updated June 2025

Your baby was sleeping beautifully, naps were predictable, and evenings finally had a rhythm—until 18 months rolled around. If you’re suddenly facing bedtime battles, night wakings, or skipped naps, you’re not alone.

As a certified sleep consultant, I work with many parents who feel blindsided by the 18-month sleep regression. It’s one of the most challenging phases of toddlerhood—but I want you to know that it’s normal, temporary, and manageable.

What is the 18 Month Sleep Regression?

Sleep regressions are developmental phases where sleep temporarily worsens. Around 18 months, toddlers go through a major leap in independence, cognitive development, and emotional awareness. This creates new challenges with sleep.

Signs your toddler is going through a sleep regression:

• Frequent night wakings
• Early morning rising
• Nap resistance or shortened naps
• Increased clinginess at bedtime
• Tantrums or delays during your bedtime routine

What causes sleep regressions at 18 months and 2 years?

Let’s explore the key drivers behind toddler sleep disruption:

Developmental milestones and language leaps

At 18 months, your toddler is rapidly learning new words and concepts. This cognitive leap can make it harder for their brain to wind down for sleep. According to research from the Sleep Foundation, mental growth spurts can significantly impact sleep quality.

Separation anxiety and bedtime resistance

Your toddler is becoming more aware of your presence—and your absence. Separation anxiety peaks again at this age, making bedtime more emotional. You may hear more "No!" and "Stay!" during your nighttime routine.

Hunger and nutritional shifts

Toddlers are growing quickly, and their nutritional needs shift. Many start needing more healthy fats and protein to stay full overnight. Skipping or under-eating dinner may cause nighttime wake-ups.

Teething and discomfort

Molars often come in around 18-24 months. While teething isn't always the culprit, it's worth assessing if pain is part of the problem. If your toddler is happy and playful during the day, discomfort may not be the main cause of their night wakings.

How long does the 18 month sleep regression last?

Most regressions last 2–6 weeks. It can feel endless when you're in the thick of it, but please know it’s temporary. With consistent routines and supportive strategies, your toddler will return to better sleep soon.

Will sleep training be undone?

If your toddler had independent sleep skills before, they haven’t lost them. Think of this as a temporary detour. Avoid creating new sleep habits that will be hard to break later (like co-sleeping or rocking to sleep every night).

How to help your toddler sleep better during regressions

Maintain a consistent bedtime routine

Keep your wind-down predictable and short—about 30 to 45 minutes. Include a bath, pajamas, a book, and a special bedtime phrase. A clear ending helps your toddler know what’s coming next.

Offer the right food at the right time

If dinner is early (around 4:30–5:00pm), offer a light snack with protein before bedtime. Options like toast with peanut butter, cheese, or a small bowl of porridge can prevent hunger-related wake-ups.

Room temperature and comfort items matter

A cool, dark room (16–20°C) supports deep sleep. Introduce a comfort item like a Sleepytot, soft toy, or blanket to help with separation anxiety. A red-toned nightlight can also be soothing without suppressing melatonin.

Responding to wake-ups: Sit near, don’t climb in

Support your toddler without undoing their sleep skills. Sit near their bed, offer comfort with words or touch, and wait while they fall back asleep. This reassures them without creating new dependencies.

Should I use a night light?

Yes—if your toddler seems afraid of the dark or calls for you more often. Choose a red or orange-based nightlight, as these colors are less disruptive to melatonin production.

Common mistakes to avoid during the 18 month regression

Creating new sleep associations

It’s tempting to bring your toddler into your bed or rock them to sleep every time they wake. These quick fixes can turn into long-term habits that are hard to break.

Dropping naps too soon

Your toddler still needs 1 nap a day, typically around 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Skipping naps often leads to overtiredness and worse night sleep. Stay consistent with nap times, even if your toddler resists.

What about the 2 year sleep regression?

At 24 months, many toddlers experience another round of sleep disruption. This often coincides with increased independence, limit-testing, and big emotional development.

Signs include bedtime stalling, new fears, nap refusal, or early waking. Strategies are similar: stay consistent, support them emotionally, and avoid major schedule changes during this phase.

Real Parent Story: You're Not Alone

When Sarah’s 18-month-old suddenly started waking every 90 minutes, she was devastated. He had been sleeping through the night for months. We assessed his routine, offered a bedtime snack, and adjusted how Sarah responded to wake-ups. Within 10 days, he was sleeping soundly again.

Need more support? Try our toddler sleep program

If you're struggling through toddler sleep regressions and not sure what to try next, I’d love to help. Our Toddler Sleep Online Program is designed for children 18 months to 4 years old and includes personalised email support from our certified sleep team.
Let’s bring back restful nights—for both of you.