23-Month Sleep Regression: Tips for Parents on Handling Toddlers’ Sleep Disruptions

For many parents, the journey of raising a toddler is filled with numerous milestones and a fair share of challenges. One such challenge that often catches parents off guard is the 23-month sleep regression. This period can be particularly trying, as it disrupts the sleep patterns that both the child and the parents have come to rely on.

In this article, we’ll delve into what the 23-month sleep regression entails, why it happens, and how to navigate through it with patience and understanding.

What is 23-Month Sleep Regression?

The term “23-month sleep regression” refers to a phase that some toddlers experience around 23 months of age, where their previously established sleep patterns seem to fall apart. This can manifest in various ways, including increased difficulty in falling asleep, frequent night wakings, shorter naps, or outright refusal to nap. It can be a frustrating time for the entire family, as the lack of sleep can affect everyone’s mood and well-being.

Why Does 23-Month Sleep Regression Happen?

Multiple factors can contribute to sleep regression at this age. These can include:

• Developmental Milestones: Toddlers go through significant cognitive and physical growth spurts around the two-year mark. These developmental leaps can sometimes disrupt sleep as the child’s brain is buzzing with new skills and awareness.
• Separation Anxiety: At this age, toddlers may become more aware of separations. This can make bedtime harder, as they might not want to be away from their parents.
• Teething: The emergence of the second molars, which often occurs around this age, can cause discomfort and disrupt sleep.
• Asserting Independence: Toddlers are learning to assert their independence and may resist sleep as a way of testing boundaries and expressing their newfound autonomy.
• Schedule Changes: Any disruptions to the child’s routine, such as travel, illness, or changes in daycare, can lead to sleep regression.

Signs of 23-Month-Old Sleep Regression

Recognizing the signs of sleep regression can help parents understand and address the issue more effectively. Some telltale symptoms to watch for include:

• Difficulty falling asleep at night
• Increased resistance to napping during the day
• Frequent night awakenings
• Early morning wake-ups
• Overall crankiness or changes in mood due to lack of sleep

How to Fix 23-Month Sleep Regression

While the phrase “fixing sleep regression” might imply a quick solution, the reality is that dealing with sleep regression often requires a combination of strategies, patience, and time. Here are some tips to help parents and toddlers get through this phase:

Create a Soothing Bedtime Routine

Establishing a calming pre-sleep routine can signal to your child that it’s time to wind down. This routine might include a warm bath, reading a book, or cuddles. Consistency is key, as it creates a sense of security and predictability for the toddler.

Ensure a Comfortable Sleep Environment

The sleep environment should be conducive to rest. Keep the room cool, dark, and quiet, and consider using white noise to help mask household sounds that could be disruptive.

Stay Consistent with Sleep Times

Try to keep nap times and bedtime consistent, even when it’s difficult. This helps regulate your child’s internal clock and makes it easier for them to fall asleep at the expected times.

Address Teething Pain

If teething is causing discomfort, speak to your pediatrician about pain relief options that may help your toddler sleep more comfortably.

Manage Separation Anxiety

For toddlers experiencing separation anxiety, it can be helpful to spend some quality time together before bed. Additionally, comfort objects like a favorite toy or blanket can provide reassurance when parents are not present.

Offer Reassurance but Avoid Creating New Habits

When your child wakes up at night, offer comfort and reassurance. However, be cautious of creating new sleep crutches, such as rocking to sleep or allowing them into your bed if these are not part of your regular routine.

Limit Screen Time Before Bed

Exposure to screens before bedtime can interfere with the body’s natural sleep rhythms. Limiting screen time in the evening can help your child fall asleep more easily.

Toddler Refusing to Nap

One of the more perplexing aspects of the 23-month-old sleep regression is when toddlers refuse to nap. Here are some strategies to encourage napping:

Watch for Sleep Cues

Look for signs of sleepiness, such as rubbing eyes or yawning, and try to put your child down for a nap at that time. Catching the right window can make a big difference.

Encourage Quiet Time

If your toddler refuses to nap, encourage a period of quiet time with books or other calm activities. This can provide a restful break even if they don’t fall asleep.

Adjust Nap Lengths and Timing

Experiment with shortening naps or adjusting the timing to find what works best for your child’s needs and to ensure that daytime sleep doesn’t interfere with nighttime sleep.

23-Month-Old Sleep Regression Tips

To summarize, here are some quick tips to manage the 23-month sleep regression:

• Establish and maintain a consistent bedtime routine.
• Ensure the sleep environment is quiet, dark, and comfortable.
• Be consistent with sleep times.
• Address any physical discomforts, such as teething.
• Manage separation anxiety with reassurance and comfort objects.
• Avoid creating new sleep crutches during this period.
• Limit screen time in the hours leading up to bedtime.
• Watch for your toddler’s sleep cues and act on them promptly.
• Encourage restful quiet time if napping is refused.
• Adjust nap lengths and timing as needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 23-month sleep regression is a challenging yet normal part of toddler development. By understanding the potential causes and implementing strategies to manage sleep disruptions, parents can help their toddlers (and themselves) get through this phase. It’s essential to remember that each child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Stay patient, consistent, and flexible, and over time, sleep patterns should return to normal. With the right approach, this sleep regression can be just a brief detour on the journey of growth and learning.

Originally posted 2023-09-08 00:09:30.