If you’re in the thick of a toddler sleep regression and wondering, “What happened to my great little sleeper?”—you are so not alone. Around 24 months, many toddlers go through major developmental leaps that impact how, when, and if they sleep.
And while it can feel like sleep is falling apart overnight, there are ways to reset and reclaim rest for everyone in your home.
Let’s talk about…
What is a Toddler Sleep Regression?
Why Does a Toddler Sleep Regression Happen?
How to Reset Sleep During a Toddler Sleep Regression
How the Toddler Essentials Course Can Help
Wait, Is This the 24 Month Sleep Regression?!
What is a Toddler Sleep Regression?
The toddler sleep regression—often showing up around 18 to 24 months—is when your toddler, who may have been sleeping like a champ, suddenly starts fighting naps, waking at night, or popping up at 5:00 am ready to party.
And while it might feel like your child is plotting against you (especially on the day you stayed up to watch just one extra episode), there’s a developmental reason behind the madness.
Here are a few common signs of a toddler sleep regression:
- Fighting naps or refusing to nap altogether
- Bedtime battles (asking for 10 books, 5 more hugs, and 3 glasses of water)
- Night wakings that feel impossible to soothe
- Early morning wakings before the sun comes up
Sound familiar? You’re not alone. This phase can be exhausting and confusing, but the good news is: it’s temporary.
Why Does a Toddler Sleep Regression Happen?
Around two years old, toddlers go through major brain and body changes. Their imaginations are developing, their independence is growing, and their ability to express emotions (read: throw tantrums) is expanding by the day. Here’s what’s contributing to the toddler sleep regression:
- Cognitive development: They’re processing more of the world, which can lead to overstimulation and even nighttime fears.
- Separation anxiety: Just when you thought you were past it, your toddler suddenly NEEDS you at bedtime again.
- FOMO (the fear of missing out): They’re convinced that if they close their eyes, they’ll miss something amazing.
- Boundary testing: They’re wired to push limits—it’s how they learn. Sleep routines are often the first place this shows up.
The toddler sleep regression can last anywhere from a couple of weeks to a month, but that timeline largely depends on your ability to set consistent boundaries and routines.
How to Reset Sleep During a Toddler Sleep Regression
Even if sleep has totally unraveled, it’s not too late to get back on track. Here’s how to reset sleep during a toddler sleep regression:
1. Stick with the Nap (Even If They Fight It)
It might be tempting to drop the nap altogether, but hold off! Most toddlers still need a nap until 2.5-3 years old. Instead of removing it, create clear expectations:
- Nap/quiet time happens at the same time every day.
- They can read or rest quietly if they don’t sleep.
- Keep them in their room for at least one hour.
Many toddlers will go back to napping once they adjust to the expectations again.
Need more help with naps? Download our FREE Ultimate Naps Guide.
2. Use an “Okay to Wake” Clock
This tool can be a game changer for early morning wakings. The light signals when it’s time to get up, which helps toddlers stay in bed longer. We recommend:
- The Hatch Rest (fully controllable from your phone)
- The LittleHippo Mella: Ready to Rise Night Light (another toddler-friendly option)
It usually takes a few days for them to catch on, so stay consistent! Whether you handle early waking with space or check-ins depends on your child’s temperament and your sleep preferences.
3. Tackle Night Wakings with Boundaries and Comfort
If your toddler is suddenly waking in the middle of the night and demanding snuggles, there’s a good chance it’s related to imagination-based fears or separation anxiety. A few strategies:
- Offer a comfort item (lovey or blanket)
- Give a quick check-in to reassure them you’re nearby
- Avoid starting new habits that won’t be sustainable for your family in the long run
Stay calm, be consistent, and remind yourself that this is a phase. A tough one—but a phase!
For more on night wakings, check out: Top Four Reasons for Night Wakings.
How the Toddler Essentials Course Can Help
If the toddler sleep regression has rocked your world, the Toddler Essentials Course can help you get it all back on track.
Inside the 2-5 Years Content Library, you’ll find:
- In-depth guides on bedtime battles, nap transitions, daycare struggles, and more
- The brand-new Toddler Essentials Video Course is packed with expert advice
- Tools to help you eliminate power struggles and preserve sleep
- Confidence-boosting strategies to set boundaries and honor your toddler’s unique personality
The Peaceful Sleeper Method is all about tuning into your individual child and working with them, not against them. Because when everyone’s well-rested, you get to experience the magic of toddlerhood with joy instead of exhaustion.
Grab the entire 2-5 Years Content Library here!
Wait, Is This the 24 Month Sleep Regression?!
Yes! The toddler sleep regression commonly shows up around 24 months, which is the last of the “common” sleep regressions. This regression often includes:
- Fighting naps and bedtime
- Night wakings with big emotions
- Early morning wakings
While it’s rough, it’s also a signal that your toddler is developing beautifully. And once it’s over—you’re past the hump of sleep regressions!
Read even more on surviving the 24 month sleep regression here!
Recap of The Toddler Sleep Regression
Here’s what to remember:
- A toddler sleep regression is normal (and usually happens around 24 months)
- It’s caused by bid developmental changes, including independence and imagination
- It typically lasts 2-4 weeks, depending on your response
- You can reset sleep by staying consistent with naps bedtime routines, and boundaries
Above all, know that your child will get through this. And so will you.
If you need a roadmap for navigating sleep and behavior during this season, we’re here to help! From personalized support to our all-in-one Toddler Essentials Course, we have everything you need to bring back the peace—and the sleep.
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