2-year-old sleep regression. Usually when parents talk about sleep regressions it is the ones that babies experience at infancy.
By the time toddlers are two, they are used to some sort of a bedtime routine. But this is also the time where a sleep regression can be affecting their bedtime routine.
If you are struggling with a bedtime routine for your little one check out this post to help with them falling asleep.
What is a sleep regression?
Sleep regression is common around 4 months, 8 months, 18 months, and 2 years. Basically, it is interrupting the baby’s regular sleep pattern.
Each sleep regression may be caused by something different. It could be causing them discomfort before falling asleep or waking them up in the middle of the night.
Just like all the sleep regressions before this one, this too will pass. It will usually last about one to three weeks.
What causes a sleep regression?
The are multiple causes or reasons your baby is waking up in the middle of the night or struggling to fall asleep. Here are just a few common reasons.
Teething
Teething is usually a painful experience for your little one. Many toddlers are working on a getting their two year old molars.
So, if they are trying to pop those teeth through that could possibly disturb their sleep. If you need some teething remedies check out this post.
Being Overtired
You would think being tired your kiddo would fall asleep fast, but that is not the case. When your toddler starts pushing bed time back, they tend to wind themselves up due to being sleepy. When this happens it is hard for them to calm themselves down enough to fall asleep.
Changes to nap time
Let’s be honest, life is a little crazy and sometimes it is hard to maintain a strict routine, so it may be possible that some days your toddler may miss their nap. This is also the time that some toddlers start fighting naps. So a day full of fun and no sleep can affect their nighttime sleep.
Becoming more independent
Toddlerhood is a whole new world for your little one. They have started walking and talking and wanting to do more things on their own. This may continue at bedtime with them wanting to get themselves dressed or climbing out of their crib. This newfound independence can cause issues at bedtime.
Fears
At 2 years old, toddlers are experiencing more things and those new things can be scary. This post discusses toddlers having monster tantrums but this could also be the time where monsters or noises can cause them to wake up throughout the night.
What can you do to help?
To help resolve the 2-year-old sleep regression first you need to figure out what may be causing it. Once you have done that, there are several things to do to help your little one through this trying time.
Make sure they are safe
Some toddlers are figuring out their independence and have learned how to climb out of their crib. This might be the time to transition them into a toddler bed. If they remain in the crib, then continue to let them sleep in their crib.
If your toddler is teething, provide some comfort with teething toys, cool washcloth, or if you are comfortable with it give them Tylenol or Orajel.
Remain calm
Getting no sleep can be overwhelming. But reassure your little one that they are safe, give them hugs and kisses and allow them to soothe themselves back to sleep. You know what is best for your toddler and what they need to calm down.
Conclusion
It seems that we finally get our toddler into a good routine when it comes to bedtime and then something comes along to mess that up. Sleep regressions are just another thing to look for when your toddler is having trouble sleeping or staying asleep.
Keep in mind this is just another phase and although it may be tough it will pass. So, soak in those late-night snuggles and dry those sweet baby tears. 2-year-old sleep regression.
Leave a comment below about what helps your baby during a rough night of sleep.
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19 Comments
Amy
Sleep regressions are the worst! Lol. I spent all winter up with kids fighting ear infections and as soon as they got tubes and slept for a few nights…bam! Sleep regressionš¤£
Julia Hess
Ohhh no! Ear infections are awful. We were one ear infection away from getting tubes. But of course, that sleep regression would hit right after lol.
TARA PITTMAN
My grandbaby is almost 2 and she had problems with sleep while I was baby sitting her. Her mom was at the hospital having a baby
Julia Hess
Aww how fun with a new one coming. But it is difficult when they do not sleep.
Kelly Bolen
I wish I had the same resources when my kids were little! I would have loved to had a blog like this when they were little!
Julia Hess
Thank you! If my experiences can help someone that is all I want.
Brittany
Oh i remember this all too well!! Poor babies….so sad that they go through this! They love their rest but neeed to learn to self soothe!
Julia Hess
Of course, it seems like they have just started sleeping well and then something like a sleep regression messes it up.
Mariah French
My son had a little bit of sleep regression recently and he complains that he’s thirsty. All we can do is try to make sure he drinks a ton before going to bed. Thanks for the help!
World in Eyes
oh wow really found it so helpful and useful one….this is so really damn sad to know about these…glad you shared this valuable information with us…great work though….
Julia Hess
Thank you!
Chin chin
I did not know this term when my children were in this stage of childhood. But I remember the craziness of coping up with the sleep patterns of my 5 children. For 4 of them, it went well, but for one it was difficult.
Julia Hess
Ha there always seems to be one that makes things interesting.
Kaylin
Iāve heard so much about this from friends. Your article is super helpful and I am going to share it with them
Julia Hess
Oh thank you so much! I hope it helps.
Holly Hood
This is a great post for new mothers. My sister just had a baby and I am sure that she can benefit from reading this. Thanks for sharing. I will pass this on to her.
Julia Hess
Oh congrats. Those first few months are the hardest but they go by so fast.
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