Establishing a consistent sleep schedule for your 18-month-old is crucial for their development and well-being. At this age, toddlers are becoming more independent, which can lead to changes in sleep patterns. Understanding the appropriate wake windows, the amount of sleep needed, and how to handle common sleep challenges will help in creating a peaceful bedtime routine.

IN THIS ARTICLE:

What are Wake Windows for an 18 Month Old?

A Sample Sleep Schedule for 18 Month Old Babies

How Much Should an 18 Month Old Sleep?

How Long Should an 18 Month Old Nap?

How Many Naps are Suitable for an 18 Month Old?

What Time Should an 18-Month-Old Go to Bed?

Can an 18-Month-Old Baby Sleep Through the Night?

How to Do If my Baby Waking Up at Night?

What Should I Do If my Baby Has Major Separation Anxiety?

Can an 18-Month-Old Sleep with a Pillow?

Can you Sleep Train an 18-Month-Old?

Is there Sleep Regression for 18 Month Old Babies?

Sleep Tips

What are Wake Windows for an 18-Month-Old?

By 18 months, most toddlers have transitioned to one nap per day, which means they typically experience two wake windows throughout the day. The wake windows at this age generally range from 4 to 6 hours. At this time, the morning wake windows tend to be longer. But it is specifically depended on your child's unique sleep needs.

A proper management of wake windows ensures your toddler gets adequate rest during the day while remaining alert and engaged during their wakeful hours. Adjusting the wake windows slightly to accommodate your child's energy levels and sleep needs can make a big difference in maintaining a balanced and healthy sleep routine.

• Morning Wake Window: 5-6 hours after waking up

• Afternoon Wake Window: 4-5 hours after the nap

Sample 18-Month-Old Sleep Schedule

Here is a sample schedule for your 18 month baby, that can well balance the rest and sleep time.

This schedule can be adjusted based on your child's specific needs and sleep patterns.

How Much Should an 18-Month-Old Sleep?

On average, an 18-month-old needs about 12 to 14 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. This includes both nighttime sleep and naps. Typically, your toddler should be sleeping around 11 to 12 hours at night. To keep a healthy sleep habit, the key lies in consistency. You are supposed to keep bedtime and nap times regular, even on weekends.

How Long Should an 18-Month-Old Nap?

At 18 months, most toddlers have managed to transition to one nap per day. This nap usually lasts between 2 to 3 hours. The nap should ideally fall in the early afternoon, which helps bridge the gap between morning wake time and bedtime. This length of nap provides restorative rest without interfering with nighttime sleep. So if your baby doesn't wake up after 3 hours, it is recommended to call him/her up.

How Many Naps are Expected for an 18-Month-Old?

By 18 months, the majority of toddlers have shifted to one nap per day. However, some may still require two naps, especially if they are early risers or have shorter nighttime sleep. If your child still seems tired and cranky with one nap, it might be worth maintaining a two-nap schedule for a bit longer. But note that the second nap should be kept around 30 - 45 minutes. Otherwise, your baby may have trouble in falling asleep at night.

What Time Should an 18-Month-Old Go to Bed?

At this age, the ideal bedtime is typically between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. This allows for a long stretch of uninterrupted sleep at night, contributing to your child's overall sleep needs. Before the intended sleep time, you can also start the bedtime routines 30 minutes earlier to help your toddler to wind down. Thus, it is important to keep consistency and be patient at this process, which can help regulate your child's internal clock, making it easier for them to fall asleep and wake up at the same time each day.

Can an 18-Month-Old Baby Sleep Through the Night?

Many 18-month-olds can sleep through the night, meaning 10-12 hours of uninterrupted sleep. However, the sleep can be disrupted due to overstimulation, overtiredness, teething, illness, or the occurring of the developmental changes. If your child wakes up at night, provide reassurance but try to avoid creating sleep associations, such as feeding or rocking to sleep.

What Should I Do If my Baby Waking Up at Night?

To combat this,it's important to address these issues gently, offering comfort without reinforcing wakefulness. Ensuring your toddler gets enough rest during the day, maintaining a consistent bedtime routine, and making sure a conducive-sleep environment can also help reduce night wakings. If your child is overtired, an earlier bedtime might help. Patience and consistency are key in helping your toddler settle down for sleep.

What Should I Do If my Baby Has Major Separation Anxiety?

Separation anxiety can be intense at this age, especially during bedtime. To ease this, you can add some comforting rituals in your bedtime routine, such as reading a favorite book or singing a lullaby. Reassure your toddler that you're nearby without creating a dependency. Gradually encourage self-soothing behaviors to help them feel secure even when you're not in the room.

Can an 18-Month-Old Sleep with a Pillow?

While it might be tempting to introduce a pillow at this age, it's generally safer to wait until after the second year before giving your child a pillow. Most experts agree that introducing a pillow too early can increase the risk of suffocation or other sleep-related hazards. If you feel your toddler needs more comfort, consider using a firm, thin pillow designed for toddlers, but consult your pediatrician first.

Sleep Train an 18-Month-Old

Sleep training at 18 months can be challenging due to increased independence and possible separation anxiety. However, consistency is key. Methods such as the "Ferber method" (gradual extinction) or "Chair method" (staying in the room and gradually moving away) can be effective. Ensure that your bedtime routine is calming and consistent, and avoid stimulating activities before bed. Reinforce the idea that bedtime is a vital part of the day.

Sleep Regression of an 18-Month-Old

Around 18 months, many toddlers experience a sleep regression. This often has matter with developmental milestones, such as language acquisition and increased mobility. During this period, your child might fight naps, wake up more often at night, or have difficulty falling asleep. Stick to your established routines, and be patient as your toddler adjusts. The regression usually passes within a few weeks.

18-Month-Old Sleep Tips

• Consistency: Maintain a consistent sleep schedule and bedtime routine.

• Comfort: Create a comfortable sleep environment, with a cool, dark, and quiet room.

• Calm Activities: Engage in calming activities before bed, such as reading or a warm bath.

• Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child when they successfully stay in bed or sleep through the night.

• Avoid Stimulating Activities: Limit screen time and other stimulating activities before bedtime.