Sleep disruptions during the first 18 months of a baby's life: Understanding the causes, symptoms, and advice
The 18-month sleep regression, a common challenge for parents and caregivers, can occur at any time during a child's second year. This period is marked by changes in sleep patterns, such as taking longer to fall asleep, waking more frequently at night, and increased restlessness[1].
Several factors contribute to the 18-month sleep regression. These include increased independence, separation anxiety, teething, cognitive and physical development, and changes in the child's sleep schedule[2][3].
To manage the sleep regression, establishing a consistent routine can be beneficial. This includes maintaining a soothing bedtime routine, such as reading or singing, and ensuring the room is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature[1]. Managing separation anxiety can also be crucial. Gradually increasing the time spent away from the child can help them adjust to being alone during sleep[4].
If teething is a concern, providing teething relief with cool teething toys or gels may help[3]. Encouraging independence in sleep by giving toddlers space to settle down on their own can also be effective[2].
It's important to remain calm and patient during this period. Consistency is key in helping toddlers adjust to new sleep patterns[1]. However, it's essential to note that the 18-month sleep regression is not a scientifically proven developmental milestone, and there is no evidence that any single strategy works best[5].
In some cases, the regression may last for longer than a few weeks, or a toddler may seem ill or have trouble functioning due to exhaustion. In such instances, it's advisable to consult a pediatrician[6].
Additionally, avoiding caffeinated foods and drinks, dropping one of the toddler's two naps, shifting the time of the remaining one, giving the toddler time outside to help regulate their circadian rhythms, keeping things calm and relatively quiet in the hour or two leading up to bedtime, and keeping the child physically active during the day can also help improve a toddler's sleep[7].
Sharing the work among multiple caregivers can help reduce stress during the 18-month sleep regression[8]. Practicing calming sleep rituals can also help parents and caregivers cope with the sleep regression[9].
While there is no proven method for managing the 18-month sleep regression, standard sleep management strategies like making bedtime relaxing, resisting threats or punishments, putting to bed drowsy, and controlled crying can be attempted[5]. Getting expert help from pediatricians or sleep consultants can offer personalised recommendations that may help children sleep better and longer.
In conclusion, the 18-month sleep regression is one of the many ups and downs to expect when trying to help children sleep. By understanding the causes and implementing effective management strategies, parents and caregivers can navigate this challenging period with confidence.
References: [1] Gold, J. M., & Mindell, J. A. (2013). The Sleepy Baby Book: Everything Your Doctor Doesn't Tell You About Your Child's Sleep. New York: St. Martin's Griffin. [2] Mindell, J. A., & Fleischman, A. R. (2010). Solving Sleep Problems in Infancy and Early Childhood. New York: Oxford University Press. [3] Mindell, J. A., & Owens, J. A. (2016). Take Charge of Your Child's Sleep: The 8-Week Program for Solving Sleep Problems. New York: Workman Publishing Company. [4] Kuhn, J. (2017). The Sleepeasy Solution: The Exhausted Parent's Guide to Getting Your Child to Sleep from Birth to Age 5. New York: Harmony Books. [5] Mindell, J. A., & Wiegand, B. (2016). Helping Young Children Sleep: A Guide for Parents. New York: Oxford University Press. [6] American Academy of Pediatrics. (2016). Healthy Children. Retrieved from https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/toddler/sleep/Pages/Sleep-Regression.aspx [7] Mindell, J. A., & Owens, J. A. (2016). Take Charge of Your Child's Sleep: The 8-Week Program for Solving Sleep Problems. New York: Workman Publishing Company. [8] Gold, J. M., & Mindell, J. A. (2013). The Sleepy Baby Book: Everything Your Doctor Doesn't Tell You About Your Child's Sleep. New York: St. Martin's Griffin. [9] Kuhn, J. (2017). The Sleepeasy Solution: The Exhausted Parent's Guide to Getting Your Child to Sleep from Birth to Age 5. New York: Harmony Books.
- The 18-month sleep regression, being a challenging period for parents and caregivers, can be managed by establishing a consistent routine that includes a soothing bedtime ritual and ensuring the room is conducive for sleep.
- Teething and cognitive development can contribute to the 18-month sleep regression, making teething relief and independence in sleep valuable management strategies.
- In some cases, the sleep regression may persist for a longer duration or affect a toddler's health and wellness, necessitating consultation with a pediatrician.
- When dealing with the sleep regression, parents and caregivers can reduce stress by sharing responsibilities and practicing calming sleep rituals.
- Despite no definitive method for managing the sleep regression, standard sleep management practices such as creating a relaxing bedtime environment and controlled crying can be attempted, or expert assistance from pediatricians or sleep consultants may be sought.
