24 Month Sleep Regression: Tips For Tired Parents
24-month sleep regression that typically occurs when toddlers are around two years old can present difficulties for both parents and children alike. During this period, various factors converge to disrupt a peaceful night’s rest.
Moreover, the cognitive development and increased independence of toddlers can lead to newfound anxieties and a desire for autonomy, causing bedtime resistance and night awakenings.
Additionally, teething, growth spurts, and changing nap patterns can further contribute to sleep disruptions.
In addition, to navigate this regression and promote better sleep, maintaining a consistent bedtime routine, providing comfort and reassurance, and ensuring a conducive sleep environment are crucial for achieving a more peaceful night’s rest for both toddlers and their parents.
Let’s explore the key factors that influence the 24 month sleep regression, and discuss the trade-offs and challenges associated with managing this phase in your child’s development.
Understanding The 24 Month Sleep Regression, What Is it?
It is also alternatively referred to as the two-year-old sleep regression, is a developmental phase that numerous toddlers experience.
During this phase, toddlers who were previously good sleepers may suddenly start experiencing difficulties falling asleep, staying asleep, or both.
It typically occurs around the age of two but can begin a few months earlier or later in some children, with variations like the 6 months, 10-month, 11-month, 15-month, 18-month, and 20-month sleep regressions being possible.
See Also: Baby Waking Up Too Early
Signs Of 24 Month Sleep Regression
Elevated nighttime arousals
One of the hallmark signs of it is a sudden increase in nighttime awakenings. Your child, who once slept soundly through the night, may now wake up multiple times, seeking comfort and reassurance.
Bedtime Battles
Toddlers experiencing this regression may resist bedtime altogether. They might become more resistant to your usual bedtime routines and exhibit signs of restlessness when it’s time to sleep.
Changes in Naps
It can also impact daytime naps. Your toddler may experience shorter naps or even refuse to nap altogether, leading to increased fatigue and crankiness during the day.
Related: 14 Month Sleep Regression
Factors Influencing The 24 Month Sleep Regression
Several factors can contribute to the onset of the 24-month sleep regression, and it’s essential to understand them to navigate this challenging period effectively.
Cognitive Advancement Affect In 24 Month Sleep Regression
One of the primary elements to take into account is your child’s cognitive development. During this period, toddlers are swiftly broadening their lexicon and aptitude for addressing challenges.
Additionally, these cognitive advancements can result in heightened nighttime disturbances because their minds are more engaged.
Independence And Autonomy Affect In 24 Month Sleep Regression
Toddlers are also developing greater self-sufficiency and asserting their autonomy. They may resist bedtime routines or want to test boundaries, leading to bedtime battles and nighttime wake-ups.
Teething Affect In 24 Month Sleep Regression
Teething can continue to be a source of discomfort for some toddlers at this age, leading to pain and discomfort that disrupts sleep.
Nightmares And Fears Affect In 24 Month Sleep Regression
As their imagination grows, toddlers may start experiencing nightmares or fears that can awaken them during the night.
Transition From Crib To Bed Affect In 24 Month Sleep Regression
Certain parents opt to switch their child from a crib to a bed when they reach approximately two years old. This change can be exciting but may also disrupt sleep routines initially.
See also: 13 Month Sleep Regression
Balancing Different Factors For 24 Months Sleep Regression
Balancing the various factors affecting the 24-month sleep regression can be challenging for parents. It’s essential to consider the following trade-offs:
Consistency vs. Flexibility
Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine can help, but being flexible when your child is going through a rough patch is equally important. Finding an equilibrium between rigidity and flexibility is essential.
Comfort vs. Independence
Your child may seek comfort and closeness during the regression, but it’s also vital to encourage their independence. Offering reassurance while fostering self-soothing skills can be a delicate balance.
Sleep Training vs. Patience
Some parents consider sleep training methods to address sleep regressions, but it’s essential to weigh the benefits against potential drawbacks and choose an approach that aligns with your parenting style.
Teething Remedies vs. Natural Coping
If teething is a contributing factor, deciding whether to use teething remedies or opt for natural coping methods is a decision parents must make based on their child’s needs and preferences.
Related: 16 Month Sleep Regression
24 Month Sleep Schedule
A typical sleep schedule for a 24-month-old toddler involves around 11-14 hours of sleep per day, which is typically divided between nighttime sleep and a daytime nap. Here’s a general guideline
| Aspect of Sleep Regression | Description |
| Timing | Around the 24-month mark. |
| Common Symptoms | Increased nighttime awakenings, bedtime resistance. |
| Recommended Sleep Hours | 10-12 hours at night with a daytime nap. |
| Bedtime Routine | Maintain a consistent bedtime and naptime schedule. |
| Parental Approach | Be prepared for occasional disturbances. |
| Exercise patience with your toddler. | |
| Provide comfort and reassurance during awakenings. | |
| Goal | Ease the transition back to a stable sleep schedule. |
See also: How To Get Baby To Sleep In Bassinet?
How Long Does 24 Month Sleep Regression Last
It generally persists for several weeks to a couple of months, though the precise time frame can differ from one child to another.
It’s crucial to emphasize that this regression is a passing stage in a toddler’s growth, and through steadfast sleep routines and tactics, the majority of children ultimately revert to more predictable sleep habits independently.
Patience and understanding from parents during this period are essential for helping both the child and the family adjust to the changes in sleep patterns.
Related: Baby Witching Hour
FAQs About 24 Month Sleep Regression
Yes, there can be a sleep regression around 24 months, marked by increased nighttime awakenings and bedtime resistance, though its timing and intensity can vary among children.
To survive the 24-month sleep regression, maintain a consistent sleep routine, offer comfort during night awakenings, be patient, and trust that it’s a temporary phase in your toddler’s development.
You’ll know the sleep regression is over when your child’s sleep patterns gradually return to their normal routine, with fewer nighttime awakenings and improved bedtime behavior.
Yes, there can be a 24-month growth spurt, marked by increased appetite and potential disruptions in sleep patterns as a child experiences physical and developmental changes.
Yes, sleep regression typically resolves itself as a child adjusts to developmental changes. Consistency in routines and parental support can help ease the transition back to regular sleep patterns.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 24-month sleep regression can indeed be a challenging phase for both toddlers and parents, characterized by increased nighttime awakenings, bedtime resistance, and changes in nap patterns.
Understanding the contributing factors such as cognitive development, independence, teething, and fears is crucial. Balancing factors like consistency vs. flexibility, comfort vs. independence, and sleep training vs. patience can be a delicate task for parents.
However, with patience, a consistent routine, and a supportive approach, most children eventually overcome this phase, returning to more stable sleep patterns.
Furthermore, it’s essential to remember that it is a temporary part of a child’s development, and by providing understanding and care, parents can help their little ones navigate this challenging period.
Awais Khan, a distinguished contributor to parentingaspects.com, blends his academic background in early childhood education and psychology with practical experience in teaching and counseling. Renowned for staying current with child development research, he excels in empathetic, clear communication and adept problem-solving. His expertise is further enhanced by certifications in child therapy and parenting coaching. With a deep understanding of diverse family dynamics and a commitment to ethical practices, Awais, as both the owner and administrator of the site, ensures the highest quality of parenting resources and support, supported by his network of professionals in healthcare, education, and child welfare.
