Toddler Sleep: Navigating Regressions and Night Wakings, Dropping Naps

We know that toddler sleep can be a topic filled with questions and concerns. Often there's a lot of guidance on baby sleep, but we felt that when our toddlers were waking in the night there wasn't much out there in terms of tips or advice. As your little one is growing and developing rapidly, their sleep patterns can sometimes be unpredictable and this can sometimes move into toddlerhood, too. In this article, we'll address common questions surrounding toddler sleep regressions and night wakings from our community to help offer our tips and guidance that worked for us and hopefully give you some insights into navigating this phase.

Toddler sleep regressions are periods when your previously good sleeper may start experiencing disruptions in their sleep patterns. These regressions are entirely normal and often occur due to various developmental milestones or changes in your toddler's life. Here are some common questions related to toddler sleep regressions:

1. What Causes Sleep Regressions?

Sleep regressions can be triggered by various factors, including teething, developmental leaps, changes in routine, or the transition from a cot to a toddler bed. These changes can temporarily disrupt your toddler's sleep.

2. When Do Sleep Regressions Typically Happen?

Sleep regressions can occur at various ages, but they are often reported around 18 months, 2 years, and sometimes around 2.5 years. These are times when toddlers are experiencing significant cognitive and emotional developments.

3. How Long Do Regressions Last?

The duration of sleep regressions can vary from a few weeks to a couple of months. It's essential to remain patient and maintain a consistent bedtime routine during these phases.

Coping with Night Wakings:

Night wakings are another common concern for parents of toddlers. Here are some answers to questions related to night wakings:

1. Why Does My Toddler Wake Up at Night?

Toddlers can wake up at night for various reasons, including hunger, nightmares, discomfort, or the need for reassurance. Their growing independence can also lead to separation anxiety, causing them to seek comfort from you during the night.

2. How Can I Help My Toddler Sleep Through the Night?

To encourage better sleep habits, maintain a consistent bedtime routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and ensure your toddler is well-fed and comfortable before bedtime. Respond to their night wakings with comforting reassurance, but avoid stimulating activities during these nighttime interactions.

3. Should I Use Sleep Training Methods?

Sleep training methods can be effective for some families, but it's essential to choose an approach that aligns with your parenting style and your toddler's needs. Consult with your healthcare provider or a sleep specialist for guidance on sleep training if you decide to go that route.

Toddler sleep regressions and night wakings are common challenges in the parenting journey. Remember that these phases are temporary and often signify your toddler's growth and development. Maintain a consistent routine, and offer reassurance and comfort during these times.

Your toddler could be waking in the night if they are ready to drop their second nap or only nap during the day. Let's explore this further.

As your toddler continues to grow and develop, you will find yourself facing a significant milestone: the transition from two naps to one, and eventually, when toddlers drop their nap altogether. This transition can be both exciting and challenging for parents and toddlers alike. Let's look at when toddlers typically drop their nap, why it happens, and how to navigate this phase alongside sleep wakings in the night.

Transitioning from multiple naps to just one nap a day is a natural progression in your toddler's sleep routine. While it can be a bit bittersweet, it's essential to understand the signs and reasons behind this transition.

When Does It Happen?

Most toddlers begin to drop their second nap, usually the morning nap, between 12 to 24 months of age. This transition varies from child to child and depends on their individual sleep needs and patterns. By the age of 3 or 4, many toddlers will have transitioned to a single afternoon nap or may even drop their nap entirely.

Why Does It Happen?

Several factors contribute to the dropping of a nap:

1. Changing Sleep Needs: As toddlers grow, their sleep needs evolve. They gradually need less total sleep and consolidate it into one longer nap or a longer night's sleep.

2. Increased Activity: Toddlers become more active and engaged during the day, which can make them less inclined to take multiple naps.

3. Individual Variation: Every child is different. Some toddlers may naturally need less sleep or be ready to transition earlier than others.

Signs Your Toddler Is Ready:

Recognising the signs that your toddler is ready to drop a nap can help you make a smooth transition:

1. Shorter Naps: If your toddler consistently takes shorter naps or skips one of their naps without becoming overly cranky, it might be a sign that they are ready to transition.

2. Delayed Bedtime: If your toddler has difficulty falling asleep at their usual bedtime because they're not tired, it could be an indication that they are outgrowing one of their naps.

3. Extended Wakefulness: A toddler who can stay awake for longer stretches during the day without becoming excessively irritable may be ready to drop a nap.

Navigating the Transition:

Transitioning your toddler from two naps to one or dropping their nap entirely requires patience and flexibility:

1. Gradual Transition: Start by gradually adjusting nap times. Push the morning nap slightly later or shorten it while extending the afternoon nap.

2. Consistent Routine: Maintain a consistent nap and bedtime routine to provide your toddler with a sense of security and predictability.

3. Quiet Time: Even if your toddler no longer naps, introduce a "quiet time" during the former nap hours. They can engage in quiet, calm activities that promote relaxation.

4. Adjust Bedtime: If your toddler drops their nap, consider adjusting their bedtime slightly earlier to ensure they get enough nighttime sleep.

The transition from multiple naps to one nap or no nap is a significant milestone in your toddler's development. While it may come with some adjustments, it's essential to embrace it as a sign of your child's growth. Keep in mind that every toddler is unique, and the timing of this transition can vary.