If you are the parent of a toddler, 24-month sleep regression is likely already on your radar. We all want our little ones to get as much quality sleep as possible. However, this sudden change in their sleeping habits can sometimes be overwhelming and frustrating.
The good news is that steps are available to remedy any sleep disruptions due to this transition to prevent them from becoming long-lasting problems. In this blog, we’ll discuss what causes 24-month sleep regression and how parents can help minimize the effects, so their child gets back on track with restful nights.
What Causes The 24 Month Sleep Regression
Though the exact cause of this phenomenon may not be known for certain, some theories suggest possible explanations. It’s believed that the cognitive and physical development milestones your toddler experiences may play a role in their sleep disturbances.
Naps
The 24-Month Sleep Regression may be an upsetting, separation anxiety, and confusing time for parents, but understanding your child’s issues can help. Naps, in particular, may take their toll during this stage as toddlers become accustomed to staying awake more often throughout the day. It is common for a toddler to have difficulty transitioning from longer naps to one nap time.
However, the timeline of this transition can largely depend on your ability to set clear boundaries with your child. To make this transition smoother, keep a consistent routine with fewer distractions until your toddler slowly falls asleep into new sleep patterns.
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Early Morning Wakings
Early morning waking can be a sign of 24-month sleep regressions. Children’s sleep cycles may change at this age, and waking up as early as 4:00 am is completely normal. This can be incredibly frustrating for parents and caregivers, but some steps can be taken to help your child get back on a healthy schedule.
Developing good sleep habits like a consistent bedtime routine and maintaining a dark, quiet bedroom environment can help promote restful nights of sleep. Additionally, setting up expectations around nap times can ensure your little one gets the rest they need during the day and will not be looking to catch up at night when everyone else is winding down.
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Night Wakings
Having a toddler is both an amazing and exhausting experience, as one of the toughest milestones parents tackle is dealing with sleep regression. As a part of normal development, toddlers can experience difficulty sleeping between 18 and 24 months old, commonly referred to as a 24-month sleep regression.
Fortunately, this milestone does not need to be too trying if parents are equipped with the necessary knowledge before entering it with effective sleep strategies tailored specifically for your child’s needs and appropriate limits. These are set around naps and bedtimes enforced consistently; navigating through this stage of childhood can be a success.
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How Long Does 24-Month Sleep Regression Last
Typically, the 24-month sleep regression only lasts a few weeks. However, the timeline largely depends on your ability to set clear boundaries and provide consistent reinforcement when needed. Having predictable and consistent daily expectations can help your little one settle into better toddler sleeping patterns more quickly.
This can be achieved by implementing a bedtime routine that is consistently adhered to each night and sticking to an appropriate nighttime sleep schedule for wake-ups in the middle of the night. Finally, parents should ensure they remain patient during this adjustment period – a positive attitude is key!
Recap The 24 Month Sleep Regression
No parent is happy to hear their beloved toddler has experienced a sleep regression, but sometimes these regressions are just a normal part of development. While fleeting, the 24-month sleep regression can leave families feeling exhausted and unclear on how to address the issue. At this age, toddlers are becoming more aware of themselves, their environment, and the people around them.
It’s important to note that each child’s experience with the 24-month sleep regression will vary and that it usually lasts two or three months. Parents should provide a safe and comfortable toddler’s sleep environment during this time.
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Frequently Asked Question
Is There A Sleep Regression At 24 Weeks Old?
Numerous parents have asked if there is a sleep regression at 24 weeks, and the answer is yes. At this age, babies sleep habits start to change considerably as they enter the third trimester of their development. Babies at 24 weeks are now spending more of their day awake, which maxes out their energy levels which can cause trouble sleeping at night.
Additionally, since babies start to recognize familiar voices and pay more attention to their environment around this age, it can be harder to fall asleep in noisy or distracting settings. All these elements contribute to why there could be a sleep regression at 24 weeks.
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Conclusion
I hope this article has helped explain the 24-month sleep regression, why it happens, and how long it lasts. If you are currently going through this with your little one, hang in!
It will eventually end. In the meantime, try some of the tips I’ve mentioned above and see if they help. And remember, you are not alone! Many other parents are dealing with this same issue right now.
