If your toddler has suddenly started fighting bedtime, waking up more often, or refusing naps, you’re not alone. We’ve been there with those long nights where all the sleep progress you made seems to have disappeared overnight.
This is toddler sleep regression, and it’s a very normal, temporary phase. Here are five things that helped us get through it, part of our full guide to toddler sleep.
What you’ll find in this post
- Why sleep regressions happen, and why they’re temporary
- Sticking to routine when sleep feels unpredictable
- Offering comfort without starting new long-term habits
- Adjusting schedules and looking after yourself too
The 5 ways
Surviving toddler sleep regression
Peaceful nights are coming back soon.
1
Way one
Remember that it’s normal and temporary
Sleep regressions often happen around major developmental milestones, learning new skills, starting daycare, or language leaps. This stage won’t last forever, even if it feels endless at 2am.
2
Way two
Stick to the routine as much as possible
When sleep feels unpredictable, routine becomes your best friend. Keep bedtime and nap schedules the same, even on weekends, the familiarity signals it’s time to rest.
- For the full routine to build on, see: 5 Things That Make Bedtime Easier for Toddlers
3
Way three
Offer extra comfort without starting new habits
During a regression, toddlers often need more reassurance. Offer calm comfort, a quick cuddle or gentle pat, while keeping boundaries clear so you’re not starting habits you don’t want to maintain long term.
4
Way four
Adjust sleep schedules if needed
Sometimes regressions happen because sleep needs are changing. Around 18 months to 2 years, many toddlers drop from two naps to one. Try adjusting nap length or bedtime by 15 to 30 minutes.
5
Way five
Take care of yourself too
Sleep regressions test everyone’s patience, and exhaustion doesn’t help anyone. If you have a partner, try to tag-team the rough nights. If solo parenting, give yourself grace and find small ways to recharge.
Peaceful nights are coming back soon.
Toddler sleep regression can make even the best bedtime routine feel like it’s falling apart. But with patience, consistency, and a few gentle tweaks, you’ll both find your rhythm again.
Common questions about sleep regression
Written by a mum of two
Having survived more bedtime battles than I can count, I write about the honest, practical side of toddler sleep, because every parent deserves real advice, not just theory.
