--- title: 18-Month-Old Sleep Regression description: Is your once-reliable sleeper suddenly up at night, fighting naps, or waking with the birds? Take a deep breath. This frustrating phase might be a sign of incredible progress. image: https://www.mellow.kids/hubfs/jelleke-vanooteghem-wzOyUkuLy7E-unsplash-1.jpg --- [Skip to content](https://www.mellow.kids/blog/18-month-old-sleep-regression#main-content) [![Mellow Kids](https://www.mellow.kids/hubfs/logo-white-2.svg)](https://www.mellow.kids) - [Home](https://www.mellow.kids) - [Resources](https://www.mellow.kids/resources) - [Blog](https://www.mellow.kids/blog) - [The Team](https://www.mellow.kids/about) - [Contact Us](https://www.mellow.kids/contact-us) Open main navigation Close main navigation - [Home](https://www.mellow.kids) - [Resources](https://www.mellow.kids/resources) - [Blog](https://www.mellow.kids/blog) - [The Team](https://www.mellow.kids/about) - [Contact Us](https://www.mellow.kids/contact-us) - [Personal Sleep Support](https://www.mellow.kids/personal-sleep-support) [Personal Sleep Support](https://www.mellow.kids/personal-sleep-support) [All posts](https://www.mellow.kids/blog/all) [Blog](https://www.mellow.kids/blog/all) / [Sleep regressions](https://www.mellow.kids/topics/sleep-regressions) / 18-Month-Old Sleep Regression # 18-Month-Old Sleep Regression 2 minute read  ·  Updated July 22, 2026 ![Baby sleeping](https://www.mellow.kids/hubfs/jelleke-vanooteghem-wzOyUkuLy7E-unsplash-1.jpg) ![Picture of Daiany Nascimento](https://www.mellow.kids/hs-fs/hubfs/Daiany%201-1.jpg?width=50&height=50&name=Daiany%201-1.jpg) Written By Daiany Nascimento Certified Pediatric Sleep Specialist ![Picture of Mary Ann Nero](https://www.mellow.kids/hs-fs/hubfs/Mary%20Ann-1.png?width=50&height=50&name=Mary%20Ann-1.png) Medically Reviewed By Mary Ann Nero Clinical Advisor | Registered Nurse (Pediatrics & Obstetrics) In this article Is your once-reliable sleeper suddenly up at night, fighting naps, or waking with the birds? Take a deep breath! This frustrating phase might be a sign of incredible progress, not a sleep regression.   ## **Growing Brains, Shaky Sleep** When your little one experiences a period of disrupted sleep, it could be their brain working overtime! Around 16-20 months, toddlers experience major developmental leaps – physically, mentally, and emotionally. They're becoming more independent, grasping cause-and-effect, and realizing their actions can influence the world around them. This newfound awareness can lead to thoughts like, "Wait, I can choose what I do... maybe I don't *have* to sleep!" ## **Beyond Sleep: A Burst of New Skills** This growth spurt isn't just about sleep. Your little explorer might be mastering new skills like running, climbing, following simple instructions, or mimicking household chores. Even if these haven't emerged yet, chances are they're right around the corner! ## **The 18-Month Sleep Regression: A Temporary Phase** The sleep disruption caused by this exciting developmental phase is often called the 18-month sleep regression. While frustrating, it's usually temporary. With a little patience and consistency, you can help your toddler navigate this new phase and get back to restful nights. ## **Is It Separation Anxiety or Something Else?** Yes, many babies experience a peak of separation anxiety around 18 months. This desire for independence can clash with their need for security, leading to bedtime and naptime protests. ## **Why Won't My Toddler Sleep Through the Night?** Several factors can contribute to nighttime wakings: ## **Signs of the 18-Month Sleep Regression:** ## **How Long Does It Last?** Thankfully, the 18-month sleep regression is temporary, typically lasting about 1-2 weeks. Their brains and bodies are simply working hard as they develop! ## **Helping Your Little One Through the Regression:** Remember, this is a temporary phase. By understanding the reasons behind the sleep disruptions and using these tips, you can help your little one through the 18-month sleep regression and get back to enjoying peaceful nights together. ## Related posts [![toddler crying](https://www.mellow.kids/hubfs/GettyImages-114509392-5a67f4518023b90019328750-1.png)](https://www.mellow.kids/blog/is-your-3-year-old-experiencing-a-sleep-regression) [Sleep regressions](https://www.mellow.kids/topics/sleep-regressions) ### [Is Your 3-Year-Old Experiencing a Sleep Regression?](https://www.mellow.kids/blog/is-your-3-year-old-experiencing-a-sleep-regression) Three-year-olds are bundles of energy, curiosity, and big emotions. As they explore their ... 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