The 2 -Year- Old Sleep Regression

What to do with a toddler and a regression?

Hot take mama- sleep regressions in toddlers aren't real. Yep, I said it. Take a moment and let that digest. As a toddler sleep consultant, here's why I say that:

Typically around age 2, your child's sleep will change, but I would not at all label this a regression. A regression is something that doesn't need to be addressed and will simply go away in a week or two, what is happening with your toddler is likely not this.

You have probably noticed your toddler wants to do things on their own in their own way. The time of needing everything done for them is no longer, and they crave independence. Your little one has likely made the transition to a big kid bed or an open sided version of their crib- this is often when parents begin sitting in the room as the child falls asleep to keep them in the bed rather than running around the house! Sitting in the room often begins as no big deal, a nice time to connect and help your child unwind while you catch a breath yourself. Typically, the time it takes the child to fall asleep increases, they start needing snacks, water, extra hugs, they are scared, they want to play, etc. Next thing you know, they are waking up in the middle of the night. This is when some families bring their toddler into their bed so they can all just get some sleep. Next thing you know this is the new normal and you are scratching your head at how you even got here.... does this sound familiar?

If any of this is sounding familiar, I encourage you to make a change to your toddlers sleep routine now. It is important we teach our children to fall asleep on their own, as this is going to be their reality for a long time. Bedtime is a good time for your toddler to learn independence, being alone with themselves and their thoughts, learning to calm themself- these are all important skills for your toddler to work on. This also gives you time to take care of your needs as a parent and connect with your partner.

So although around age 2 parents typically see a major change in their toddler's sleep, this is not a regression, this is a new stage of life that requires your toddler to work on learning new skills and gaining independence.

For more guidance on how to get your child falling asleep on their own and sleeping through the night, schedule a free first session here.