How to Handle Sleep Regressions at Any Age

Sleep regressions can leave even the most patient parents feeling frazzled, exhausted, and unsure of what to do. Whether it’s a baby waking every hour or a toddler suddenly resisting bedtime, these disruptions are completely normal but still challenging.

If you’re in the middle of a sleep regression, take a deep breath—you are not alone. Sleep regressions are temporary phases tied to your child’s developmental growth. With patience, consistency, and the right strategies, you can help your family navigate these tricky moments. Let’s explore how to do just that.

Why Do Sleep Regressions Happen?

Sleep regressions often coincide with developmental milestones like learning new motor skills, language bursts, or increased separation anxiety. Common ages for sleep regressions include around 4 months, 8-10 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 2 years.

During these stages, your child’s brain is developing rapidly, which can temporarily disrupt their ability to fall and stay asleep. While this can be frustrating, it’s also a sign of healthy growth.

Tips for Navigating Sleep Regressions

1. Stay Consistent with Bedtime Routines

A predictable bedtime routine is your best friend during any sleep regression. Whether your child is 6 months or 2 years old, a calm and soothing sequence—like a warm bath, story, and cuddle—provides structure and reassurance during uncertain times.

Stick with the same steps every night to signal that it’s time for sleep. Even if your child protests, repetition creates a sense of familiarity and comfort.

2. Create an Ideal Sleep Environment

Make sure your child’s sleep space is set up for success:

• Darkness: Use blackout curtains to block out light.

• White Noise: A white noise machine can help drown out household or neighbourhood sounds.

• Comfortable Temperature: Keep the room between 20–22°C (68-72°F) for optimal comfort.

These simple adjustments can help minimize external disruptions and improve sleep quality.

3. Offer Daytime Sleep Opportunities

During sleep regressions, children often have shorter naps or resist daytime sleep altogether. Avoid overtiredness by offering consistent nap opportunities, even if naps don’t last as long as usual.

For toddlers, quiet time (even if they don’t sleep) can still be restorative and help prevent meltdowns before bedtime.

4. Support Age-Appropriate Sleep Independence

Depending on your child’s age and readiness, you may want to encourage a supportive approach to sleep independence. For babies, try placing them in their crib when they’re awake so they can practice self-soothing skills.

For toddlers, setting boundaries around bedtime (like using a “bedtime pass” for one last hug or drink of water) can promote a sense of control while reinforcing sleep expectations.

If your child becomes distressed, it’s okay to respond. Providing comfort does not spoil your child—it helps them feel safe and secure during these developmental leaps.

5. Manage Toddler Bedtime Battles

Toddlers are known for testing boundaries, especially during sleep regressions. If your toddler is resisting bedtime or waking frequently, try these strategies:

• Offer Choices: Let them choose between two pairs of pajamas or two books to read. This small sense of control can reduce resistance.

• Set Clear Expectations: Explain what will happen at bedtime in simple terms. For example, “After story time, it’s time for sleep.”

• Be Consistent: Toddlers thrive on predictability. Stick with your bedtime rules, even if they test them.

6. Take Care of Yourself

Sleep regressions are exhausting for everyone. Give yourself permission to ask for help or take a break when you need it. Even 20 minutes of self-care can help you recharge and approach bedtime with more patience.

Remember, seeking support is not a sign of failure—it’s a sign of strength.

7. Seek Support If You Need It

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, our programs are designed to offer personalized guidance and support:

• Baby Save Our Sleep Program: Tailored for families with babies experiencing sleep challenges. We’ll work together to build healthy sleep habits that fit your family’s needs.

• Toddler Bedtime Battles Program: Focused on supporting families through toddler sleep challenges, including bedtime resistance and night wakings. We offer compassionate strategies that empower parents and toddlers alike.

Our programs are designed to teach age-appropriate sleep skills with empathy and flexibility. You don’t have to go through this alone—we are here to help you every step of the way.

Sleep regressions are temporary, but they can feel overwhelming in the moment. With patience, consistency, and the right support, you can help your child navigate these developmental leaps and emerge with healthier sleep habits.

Remember, you’re doing an incredible job—even when it doesn’t feel like it. If you need extra support, reach out to us. Together, we’ll guide your family toward better sleep and more peaceful nights.