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Inside: Say goodbye to sleep struggles: Expert strategies for dealing with 2 Year Old Sleep Regression and bring back blissful nights for your family.

Has your sleep-loving little one suddenly started boycotting all things sleep? You might be in the thick of the 2 year old sleep regression.

This regression, often caused by a developmental leap, can show many signs of sleep disruptions such as trouble falling asleep, short naps, and multiple night wakings.

The key to dealing with (and surviving) the 2 year old sleep regression is to understand the signs and address the possible causes.

By understanding why this is happening and addressing what sleep disruptions are occurring, you can effectively work your way back to better sleep– building on the sleep foundation you have been using.

By doing this, you are creating a sleep solution that is completely tailored to YOUR child, not a generic “sleep regression solution” that may or may not work.

In the article, we’ll discuss:

• Sleep regression causes (emotional, physical, and environmental)
• Signs and symptoms of the sleep regression
• Tools for dealing with the regression
• Coping strategies for dealing with 2 year old sleep regression
• Step by Step answers to common sleep regression questions

I knew my little one was going through a sleep regression when her once wonderful sleep- through- the -night- for 10 hours turned into multiple night wakings, boycotted naps, and fussy days. This wasn’t normal for her, so I knew something was happening.

I went through months of bad sleeps because I just didn’t know where to begin, how to help her or what to do. But then I finally found a groove and began to actually meet her needs. And I’ll share with you everything I did so you don’t have to go through all of the crazy trial and error of dealing with 2 year old sleep regression.

Understanding 2 Year Old Sleep Regression

Witnessing your baby grow into a toddler is a beautiful miracle of life. As new skills present themselves, your toddler’s brain and body are readjusting to the world around them as they grow.

This specific period of increased growth (during the age of 2) can trigger sleep disruptions. These sleep disruptions can often be signs of a sleep regression. But because your child is experiencing a massive leap in developmental growth, this period of sleep disruptions can also be referred to as a sleep progression.

According to Medical News Today, “The term ‘sleep regression’ refers to a period of time when a baby or toddler experiences a shift in their sleeping pattern.”

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Common Causes of 2 Year Old Sleep Regression

Common causes and triggers of sleep regression at this age can be classified into emotional triggers, physical triggers, and transitions:

Emotional triggers to can cause sleep disruptions

• Separation anxiety
• FOMO (fear of missing out on something as they are sleeping)
• Development of fears
• Increased independence
• Mental milestone development

Physical triggers that can cause sleep disruptions

• Teething
• Sleep needs changing (needing a shifted bedtime or naptime routine)
• Physical milestone development

Sleep disruptions due to transitions

• Out of crib too early
• Potty training
• New sibling
• New house
• New home childcare provider/school/daycare

Signs and Symptoms

Remember, a sleep regression is an abrupt and noticeable decline in sleep patterns. This sudden and significant sleep decline usually is due to developmental growth.

But how will you be able to distinguish that your child is actually going through a regression? By identifying changes in behavioral and sleep-related activities.

But before we can look at signs of sleep regression, we first need to understand the importance of understanding your child’s daily patterns.

By knowing your child’s overall sleep patterns and how they act and react, you will easily be able to pinpoint when your child makes a sudden change in those behaviors.

• What do your child’s sleep cues look like?
• When do they normally get tired?
• About how long does it take for them to go to sleep? What is their favorite nap routine?
• What does their bedtime routine look like?
• Do they normally have night wakings?
• How long is the stretch of time they will sleep?

Knowing these specific patterns and routines that your child normally does will better help you not only understand the signs, and causes of the regression but also implement easy solutions to get your child back to better sleep.

Related Reading: How to Spot the Signs of the 2 year old sleep regression

Dealing with the 2 Year Old Sleep Regression- Signs

• Short naps or nap refusals (nap disturbance)
• Hour-long wakes (sometimes more) in the middle of the night
• Multiple night wakings (needs more support than usual)
• Is whining more or fussier during the day
• Sometimes more + frequent feedings or even fewer feedings
• Showing new skills (potty training, talking more, developing sentences, climbing out of bed, etc.)
• Overtiredness due to
  • Night wakingsTrouble settlingEarly morning wakes
  • Fighting naps

Need some help tracking your toddler’s sleep patterns and daily routine? Be sure to check out the You Got This Mama planner with over 60 pages of detailed trackers!

Preparing for Dealing with Sleep Regression

Here are the 2 most important tips for dealing with the 2 year old sleep regression:

Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment

The first step to dealing with 2 year old sleep regression is to ensure your child is in a sleep friendly environment for *most* sleep. This doesn’t mean that every single nap needs to be in a crib/bed- because sometimes you’re little one is going to fall asleep in the car or stroller, etc.

But an important factor when putting your child to sleep is to analyze the sleep environment. Is it comfortable to sleep? Here are easy ways to create a comfortable sleep environment for your child.

1. Setting up the Bedroom

The first thing to do is optimize the room your child is sleeping in. Here are the 4 things to help you create an awesome sleep environment:

• Room temperature- being aware of the room being too hot or too cold
• Lighting – adding black-out curtains to block light in the morning hours/day sleep
• Noise levels for better sleep – utilizing a sound machine
• Selecting appropriate bedding and comfort objects- is there a lovely your child likes to sleep with or a particular blanket/pillow that brings comfort?

2. Establishing a Consistent Bedtime Routine

After the sleep environment is created, the next step is to establish a consistent bedtime routine.

A bedtime routine is simply a series of steps that you will do every day that will help your child wind down for bedtime. These steps will then become a *signal* to your child, that it is now time for sleep.

Having a routine will help send a signal to your child that sleep time is next. Babies and children love predictability- so having a consistent routine helps prepare them for naps and bedtime.

Related Reading: Easy Toddler Bedtime Routine

Easy Naptime Routine

Here is a simple nap routine:

• Prepare room for sleep (removing toys, getting bed ready, etc)
• If child is potty trained or training, have them use the potty before nap
• Is child is in diapers, bring her/him to the room they will be sleeping in to change diaper
• Use special words/phrases/songs to help prepare your child for sleep in a comforting way (singing a sleep song, etc)
• Close windows/shades and close black out curtains
• Change child into sleep clothes/pajamas
• Turn on sound machine
• Begin your child’s desired soothing techniques- sitting on chair to rock and sing for 2 minutes or reading a book together
• Place child in bed and turn off lights
• Sing/talk to child for a few minutes to further calm and soothe them
• Leave the room

Adjusting Nap Schedules

Once you have a comfortable sleep environment and a consistent bedtime routine, next is to focus on possible sleep shifts that your child may be experiencing.

Recognizing the Need for Adjustments

As your baby gets older, their sleep needs will shift. Including the number of naps per day, the amount of sleep time per day, length of naps, and length of nighttime sleep.

When your child is in the process of a sleep shift, they will show signs that their current sleep habits are no longer working.

Signs that indicate the need for changing your nap schedule could be:

• Taking long to settle for sleep
• Not showing tired cues at the time they normally do
• Fighting naps
• Skipping naps

The key to making sleep adjustments easy is to determine optimal nap lengths, timing, and wake windows for your child.

To know your toddler’s wake window, the amount of time they are awake before their next sleep time, is to know their tired cues. What signs does your child show when they are tired?

Every child is different, so while “sample” wake windows are helpful, no 2 children are the same so it’s important to know YOUR child’s individual tired cues.

When they begin to show tired cues, note the time and the cues so you can begin to track about what time of day they are showing these tired cues. This will help you see your child’s new, adjusted nap needs.

How can adjusting nap schedules help in dealing with sleep regression in 2-year-olds?

When your child is in a sleep regression, they can easily become overtired due to the lack of sleep. It’s very common for sleep regressions to be intensified when the child is not only sleeping at night, but also not sleeping during the day.

To deal with the sleep regression, focusing on naps can help!

Finding your child’s new adjusted nap schedule and meeting their new sleep needs can tremendously help.

Strategies for Nap Schedule Adjustments

These are the 2 important factors when you’re in the process of shifting daytime sleep:

• Making gradual changes in nap duration and timing
• Ensuring a balance between adequate daytime sleep and nighttime sleep

Bedtime routine modifications

Here are 3 ways to help promote better nighttime sleep through their bedtime routine:

• Adjust the bedtime routine to address the regression (remove activities that seem to be triggering bedtime woes)
• Incorporate relaxation techniques (such as a warm bath, calming activities, connection activities, essential oils, etc.) before bedtime
• Implement a consistent winding-down period to signal sleep time

Related Reading: The Best Toddler Bedtime Routine

Coping Strategies for Sleep Regression

The easiest way to deal with the 2 year old sleep regression is to pinpoint specific causes and signs that your child is experiencing.

By being aware of the sleep struggles, you can now target those issues individually instead of feeling overwhelmed by the sleep regression as a whole.

Sleep Time Soothing Techniques

Truth is, an adult rarely falls asleep when they are completely uncomfortable and stressed. And if they do need to sleep, they have ways of calming down or helping themselves fall asleep. A child is no different! Only they cannot help themselves fall asleep like an adult can- they don’t have the resources or knowledge yet to do so.

So that’s why having a comforting routine and comfortable environment is so important!

1. Comforting and Reassuring the Child

Here are some effective ways to provide comfort and reassurance to your toddler as they are experiencing sleep regression episodes:

• Utilize items that you know already bring comfort to your child
• Add things to your bedtime routine that bring comfort to your toddler- such as 10 minutes of their favorite show or a new book that they love
• Stay with your child a bit longer in their room to provide extra reassurance (add it to your bedtime routine)
• Add in comforting techniques before bedtime, such as singing a song while rocking, rubbing their backs while in bed, humming a song while you sit in their room, etc

Don’t stress about creating “bad sleep habits” or “using sleep props” during this time- the main goal is to offer your child comfort in a way that they understand and will receive it

The ultimate goal is to create a secure and nurturing environment for your little one during this time of change for them.

2. Implementing Relaxation Techniques

What are effective techniques for soothing a 2-year-old experiencing sleep regression?

Every child is different but all children have one thing in common- they crave their parent’s loving, soothing, comforting touch. Especially when they are going through a change that seems to be unsettling all of their “normal” sleep patterns.

To help them through this (and to help you survive the regression!), the key is to incorporate calming activities before bedtime. This will create a new, extra calming routine that your toddler will begin to anticipate- helping them sleep better.

A main cause of sleep regression can be separation anxiety and a new awareness that you are not in the room anymore. This feeling intensifies at night because your child now knows that are aren’t with them. To combat this anxiety, its important to add several methods of calming and soothing actions to your bedtime routine to help your child feel extra secure.

Here are some soothing techniques you can further explore and add to your bedtime routine:

• Massage with child-approved essential oils for relaxation
• Gentle music before bedtime
• A new sound of white noise
• Different books that portray bonds between parent and child
• Diffusing essential oils prior to bedtime
• An activity before bedtime between you and your toddler (such as cuddling and watching a movie, snuggling up on the bed and reading a book)
• Adding a soothing light to their room during the bedtime routine

3. Nutrition and Sleep

I know it’s not always talked about, but there is a direct connection between nutrition and sleep. Many foods and overall diets can affect sleep quality.

Ever ate something and then went to bed, only to find that your stomach feels upset? Or maybe you feel indigestion? Or heart burn?

The same can happen to a baby and toddler!

Sleep regressions aren’t “caused” by diet changes, but since diet impacts sleep quality, its important to note that changing some eating patterns can aid better sleep.

When my children go through a sleep hiccup, I always reevaluate what food they are eating during the day.

Here is what I do:

• Limit sugars and added sugars
• Eliminate any food coloring and food dyes (red 40, yellow 10, blue ____)
• Increase water (but limit drinking one hour before bed)

Transitioning from Crib to Bed

I often find that one of the sleep regression culprits at this age is moving your toddler from a crib to a bed too early. Transitioning them before developmentally ready can lead to a regression in sleep patterns.

Here’s what you can do before making this change:

• Assessing Readiness for the Transition- is your toddler showing signs of outgrowing their crib?
• Be aware of the signs that indicate the child is ready to transition from a crib to a bed
• Factors to consider when making the transition during sleep regression

Parental responsibilities and consistency

One of the most important effective strategies for dealing with the 2 year old sleep regression is parental consistency. Just as kids thrive on a daily routine, they also thrive on consistency when dealing with disruption. It’s important to be consistent with whatever methods you choose for dealing with this sleep regression.

Of course if you see that something is not working- pivot. But if you are trying a new strategy to meet your child’s sleep needs, stick with us until you see progress.

Here are 3 keys to consistency:

• Maintain consistent responses to sleep disturbances during the regression
• Choose strategies for responding to night wakings or bedtime resistance
• Ensure there is collaboration between parents or caregivers to ensure consistent approaches

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is sleep regression in 2-year-olds normal?

Yes! As your child grows, they will take developmental leaps. Sometimes during these leaps, other areas may “regress”. Sleep is usually affected by this regression

How long does sleep regression typically last in 2-year-olds?

This question is a bit of a double-edged sword.

On one hand, if your child hasn’t entered the 2 year sleep regression then you probably want it to be as far away as possible. On the other hand, if you’re in the sleep regression, then you definitely want it to end as soon as possible.

To be honest, there is no “start time and end time” to a sleep regression or sleep progression.

Can sleep regression be prevented?

No, a sleep regression cannot be “prevented”, as it is a part of developmental growth. But with these tips, it can be easier!

Are there any specific foods or supplements that can aid in managing sleep regression?

Sugary foods and food dyes definitely can be sleep disruptors- at any age! If you are interested in foods that can aid better sleep, be sure to talk to your child’s physician or practitioner.

My child’s practitioner recommended a small dose of lightly steeped chamomile tea for my toddler, as well as warm, soothing foods before bedtime. A natural remedy doctor also recommended I rub small diluted doses of lavender (with a carrier oil) on my toddler’s feet before bedtime.

Be sure to talk to your doctor!

What if my child’s sleep regression persists or worsens?

You know your child best. If you are noticing signs that something more could be happening to your child than a developmental sleep regression, talk to your child’s pediatrician. Sometimes trouble sleeping can be a symptom of another medical issue- it’s always best to consult your doctor.

In the event that nothing medical is happening to your child but the sleep regression is persisting for several months, you can consult a sleep specialist who will work with you and your family on a personalized sleep plan.

How can establishing a consistent sleep routine help in dealing with 2-year-old sleep regression?

Your child’s sleep foundation is not lost! Just because they are experiencing a sleep regression due to a growth progression, it doesn’t mean your child’s once-good sleep habits are gone for good.

To cultivate your child’s healthy sleep patterns, creating a consistent bedtime and naptime routine can help your child feel comforted during this time of change.

If your child never had a sleep routine, it’s never too late to start! And if your child had a sleep routine but it doesn’t work anymore, don’t be afraid to pivot and meet your child’s needs as they grow.

What elements should be considered when creating a sleep-friendly environment for a 2-year-old with sleep regression?

A sleep-friendly environment is a safe place that promotes good sleep. Some easy changes you can make to your sleep space to make it as comfortable as possible are black out curtains, sound machine, and cool temperatures.

Recap of Dealing with the 2 year old Sleep Regression

The key to dealing with (and surviving) the 2 year old sleep regression is to understand the signs and address the possible causes.

By understanding why this is happening and addressing what sleep disruptions are occurring, you can effectively work your way back to better sleep- building on the sleep foundation you have been using.

These days (and nights!) can be longgg and tiring. Don’t forget to care for yourself too! Your mental health as parents is very important as you venture through this sleep journey your child is on.

You got this, mama!

Related Reading:

10 Simple Solutions to the 2 Year Old Sleep Regression

Signs of the Sleep Regreesion- What not to miss!

Toddler Bath Time Routine to Promote Better Sleep

In between long, napless days with my toddler and sleepless nights, my mind was racing to figure out what went wrong. Our sleep routine was completely flipped upside down. And so was I.

In the midst of all of the craziness, I found easy sleep regression solutions that actually work! But before you can work on sleep solutions, it’s important to identify sleep troubles.

Some sleep regression signs include sudden changes in:

• Struggling to nap during the day
• Nap refusals or short naps
• Trouble settling at bedtime
• Increased stalling tactics
• Night wakings
• Hour-long waking or bursts of nighttime energy
• Noticeably fussier days

To prevent you from having to experience ALL of the trial and error routines that I had to go through, I’ll detail everything about the 2 year old sleep regression including the signs, causes, and solutions.

So you can begin to ascend back into the glory of a good night’s sleep 🙂

Let’s dive into the 2 year old sleep regression signs…

2 Year Old Sleep Regression Signs

If your little one is over 24 months and is starting to show some of these signs, then it’s time to shift sleep needs and tackle the 2 year sleep regression.

What is a sleep regression?

A sleep regression is an abrupt and noticeable decline in sleep patterns. This sudden and significant sleep decline usually is due to developmental growth.

As your child learns new skills, meets new milestones, and continuously grows, their moving at such a rapid rate that it’s easy for another area of their life to be affected. In this case- sleep.

Because this sleep regression is attributed to natural growth and development, it is often referred to as the 2 year old sleep progression. Your child is progressing so they temporarily regress in sleep.

Related Reading: Easy Sleep Regression Solutions

What are the Signs of a Sleep Regression?

Here are some signs that could point to a sleep regression:

• Short naps or nap refusals (nap disturbance)
• Hour-long wakes (sometimes more) in the middle of the night
• Multiple night wakings (needs more support than usual)
• Is whining more or fussier during the day
• Sometimes more + frequent feedings or even fewer feedings
• Showing new skills (potty training, talking more, developing sentences, climbing out of bed, etc.)

5 Signs of The 2 Year Old Sleep Regression

If your toddler now seems allergic to naps, it might be a sign that the 2 year sleep regression has descended. This includes your toddler fighting naps, crying when you leave the room or continuously crying during naps, and napping much later than usual (probably from exhaustion).

Remember, a singular “sleep regression sign” does not necessarily mean your child is experiencing a sleep regression. But multiple signs at once can be a good indicator.

1. Nap Resistance- (Short Naps or Nap refusals)

Nap resistance refers to any type of short nap, nap refusals, multiple wakings during a nap, etc.

Nap resistance could be due to your child not being “tired enough” to sleep.

During this age, wake windows stretch and the number of naps decreases. If your child is going through a phase where a nap is being dropped, then this can affect how your child sleep during their normal naptime as well as nighttime sleep.

Nap refusals can also be due to overtiredness. This is when your child has missed their preferred naptime and they are now overtired.

The best way to combat knowing when your child is under-tired or overtired is to watch for their tired cues. Every child is different and there is no “one way” to know the perfect time to put your child to sleep every day.

The trick is to know your child’s sleep cues- the signals they give you when they are getting tired.

Related Reading- Easy Toddler Bedtime Routine for Calm Nights

2. Trouble Settling at Bedtime

Another 2 year old sleep regression sign is when your toddler is suddenly having trouble settling at bedtime. This includes:

• Prolonging bedtime,
• Crying when it’s time for sleep,
• Tossing and turning after lights out,
• Increase in separation anxiety
• More energetic than usual during the bedtime routine

As your child grows, there will be slight adjustments to your child’s bedtime routine to accommodate their new needs according to their growth and development.

Adjusting your bedtime routine can be a key element to helping your child settle at bedtime during this temporary sleep regression.

Even after the sleep regression passes and your child’s sleep has progressed, keeping the adjusted bedtime routine can help aid your child’s new sleep patterns.

Download the free Toddler Bedtime Routine to help your little one wind down and prep for bedtime by establishing a healthy, consistent routine. I’ve been using this exact bedtime routine for years and it WORKS!

Fill out the form below to receive an instant download

3. Night Wakings

The next classic 2 year old sleep regression sign is when your child has night wakings. This can include any increase in night wakings than what your child normally does.

For example, if your toddler normally sleeps 8-10 hours without a noticeable night waking and starts to wake in the middle of the night, this can be a sleep regression/progression sign.

Another example is if your toddler normally wakes 1-2 times at night within an 8-10 hour stretch and starts to wake 3-4 times, that could be a sleep regression sign.

It is normal for a toddler to wake up at night if they need something. Such as needing to use the bathroom, too hot/cold, or an element of their room has changed (like if you closed their door and they noticed it).

There is no “perfect age” that your child should be “sleeping through the night”. By the age of 2, toddlers do have the capability to sleep an 8-10 hour stretch. If they do not and you are concerned, always feel free to talk to your pediatrician or sleep consultant for help.

Related Reading- 2 Year Old Sleep Regression Causes

4. Fussier than Usual During the Day

Another sign of a sleep regression is if your child is suddenly fussier than normal during the day, or even at night.

When you aren’t sleeping well, you’re bound to get overwhelmed, cranky and grouchy. This is true for little ones too!

Your toddler may be showing increased irritability due to lack of sleep.

5. Separation Anxiety

Also known as- Crying when You Leave or Clingy

If your little one suddenly feels like Velcro to your hip, this could be an increase in separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety can be a sign of a sleep regression / sleep progression. As your little one grows and continues to learn new things, they can cling to the “known”- the things they find comforting.

And as a parent, YOU are the most comforting thing in your child’s life.

Their senses latch on to your scent, touch, voice, and even taste (hello breastfeeding mamas!). When they are uneasy, unrested, and tired, they will want to grab a hold of you even more.

FAQ- Frequently Asked Questions about 2 Year Old Sleep Regression

Here are some answers to the most asked questions during the 2 year old sleep regression.

What Causes the Regression? Why Does it Happen?

The magic of toddler life is easy to see as you watch your child grow every day. The “terrific twos” is such a beautiful time of experiencing your baby grow right before your eyes. But this period of increased growth can also lead to an increase in sleep disruptions.

You can read all about the different sleep interruption culprits and learn more about sleep regression signs here.

When Does the Sleep Regression Begin?

This sleep regression can take place anywhere within your baby’s second year of life. From exactly 24 months or it can begin anywhere past 30 months. No 2 babies are the same!

It’s important to note that not ALL babies experience this sleep regression. Different children experience different regression/progression effects.

Remember, this sleep regression is brought on due to natural growth progressions. So as your baby continues to grow and develop during this 2 year old age, it can affect their nighttime sleep.

When does it end?

There is no specific amount of time that a sleep regression can last. Sometimes is 1-2 weeks, other times it can be 3-4 weeks. Remember, the sleep regression is sparked because of developmental growth. As your child is experiencing this growth, sleep will always fluctuate.

That’s why it is imperitive to have a consitent daily routine that your toddler can find comfort in through all of their changes.

How Long Does the Sleep Regression Last?

This question is a bit of a double-edged sword.

On one hand, if your child hasn’t entered the 2 year sleep regression then you probably want it to be as far away as possible. On the other hand, if you’re in the sleep regression, then you definitely want it to end as soon as possible.

To be honest, there is no “start time and end time” to a sleep regression or sleep progression.

Does it happen to every child?

Honestly, I do not remember the 2 year old sleep regression at all with my first child. She went through a couple of sleep hiccups here and there when she turned 2, but nothing that adjusting her bedtime routine and moving her bedtime back didn’t fix.

But my second child DID experince a 2 year old sleep regression for over a month.

So, my honest answer would be no, the sleep regression does not affect every child the same. You might notice it in one child but maybe not in the next child.

There is no textbook answer that can tell you “Do ABC and your child will sleep perfectly again”.

That’s why it’s so hard to get through!

Because every child is different and every situation is different. There are also different environmental factors and developmental factors that contribute to sleep progression as well.

2 Year Old Sleep Regression Signs Recap:

Every sleep regression / sleep progression can be a difficult season in parenthood. But the key to maneuvering through those hard seasons is to be educated, informed, and trust your instincts.

Here are some sleep regression signs:

• Nap resistance
• Short Naps / Nap Refusals
• Trouble settling at bedtime
• Increased Night wakings
• Fussier than usual
• Clingy / Separation Anxiety

Sleepless nights can cause a toll on your mental health as parents. Remember to take one day at a time. Every season with your child is just that- a season, that will change in the near future.

You are not alone- you got this mama!

Read these related posts!

10 Simple Solutions for the 2 Year Old Sleep Regression

2 Year Old Sleep Regression Causes

Toddler Bedtime Routine For Easy Nights and Long Sleep

Easy 4 Step Toddler Bath Routine

Inside: Toddler struggling with nap and bedtime? Find out the main 2 year old sleep regression causes to help your toddler sleep better!

Does your toddler suddenly seem like they’re allergic to sleep? Welcome to the 2 year sleep regression…

But don’t worry! I’ll walk you through step by step not only the 2 year old sleep regression causes but also 10 easy solutions to help you get your sleeper back on track.

If your toddler is in the 2 year old sleep regression, the best way to tackle the regression is to pinpoint some causes that could be attributed to the sleep disruptions.

By knowing why the regression is happening and what are some 2 year sleep regression causes, you will be more confident getting through it!

Sleep regressions are often referred to as sleep progressions. This is because one main cause of sleep disturbance is your child’s developmental growth. As your child grows they are constantly reaching new milestones and learning new skills. In the midst of learning skills, it can sometimes affect their sleep.

Ever been so excited to do something that you just can’t sleep at night? That’s how your toddler’s brain is! Only they can’t effectively communicate their emotions and feelings.

Sleep can be their communication outlet.

Let’s explore the main 2 year old sleep regression causes…

What Are Signs of the 2 year Old Sleep Regression?

Wondering if your toddler is actually experiencing the 2 year old sleep regression? Here are some signs that could point to the sleep regression:

• Short naps or nap refusals (nap disturbance)
• Hour-long wakes (sometimes more) in the middle of the night
• Multiple night wakings (needs more support than usual)
• Is whining more or fussier during the day
• Sometimes more + frequent feedings or even fewer feedings
• Showing new skills (potty training, talking more, developing sentences, climbing out of bed, etc.)

Related Reading: How to Spot the Signs of a Sleep Regression

What Causes the 2 Year Old Regression? Why Does it Happen?

The magic of toddler life is easy to see as you watch your child grow every day. The “terrific twos” is such a beautiful time of experiencing your baby grow right before your eyes. But this period of increased growth can also lead to an increase in sleep disruptions.

As new skills present themselves, your toddler’s brain and body are readjusting to the world around them as they grow.

Let’s dive into the different sleep interruption culprits:

No time to read this now? Save it to your favorite Pinterest Board now!

2 Year Old Sleep Regression Causes

Sleep Needs Have Shifted

As your baby grows, their wake time increases, and the number of naps decreases. Your child has a daily “sleep cup” that needs to be filled. But this sleep cup shifts! That’s why an infant will nap 4-5 times a day for an hour at a time but a 2 year old will nap once for 90-120 minutes.

Sleep needs change as your toddler enters toddlerhood. They will still need sleep, but possibly at different times and for different lengths.

We will discuss how to find out YOUR baby’s current sleep needs and how to monitor those needs as they continue to grow.

Milestone Development

Developmental growth is the basis of sleep regression but it’s important to try to pinpoint the different milestones your child is undergoing. Being aware of these developments can help you feel empowered to meet their new needs.

Some milestone developments could be:

• Potty training
• Increased talking and vocabulary
• Learning new motor functions such as bike riding, tumbling, etc.

These milestones can also lead to your toddler becoming too excited about what they are now able to accomplish that the excitement can leak into sleep time.

Ever had a toddler wake up in the middle of the night and just wanted to play? That’s what happens!

Potty Training and Disrupted Sleep- What’s Up?

Potty training or toilet learning is a HUGE milestone development. Learning how to use the toilet contains so many new learning functions. From learning how to hold their bladder, how and when to release muscles, sitting on the toilet for the first time, and experiencing new sensations—this milestone is monumental.

And it may affect your child in several different ways- including sleep.

Related Reading: Toddler Potty Training Tips

Changes in Sleep Environment

Has anything in your child’s sleep environment changed recently?

Sleep environment changes can include:

• A switch from a crib to a toddler bed
• Moving rooms
• Your baby moving from your room to their own room
• Adding a sibling to the room

A change in sleep environment doesn’t necessarily have to be the main cause of a sleep regression but it can definitely add to the discomfort that your toddler is experiencing, added to their rapid growth development.

It takes time for a little one to get used to such a big change! On top all of the other growth they are experiencing, they can easily feel overloaded.

Even as an adult, I can have trouble adapting to different environments. Imagine those big feelings inside of a little body that cannot accurately express their emotions.

Big Changes in the Home

A big change in the home doesn’t have to be the main cause of the sleep regression, but it can add to all of the things your child is already naturally experiencing.

Big changes can include:

• Moving
• Starting daycare
• A sibling starting school and not being with them all day anymore
• A change in a childcare provider
• Change in family (new sibling)

Any change to a normal daily routine can cause a ripple effect on your baby’s mood and reactions. Add in a BIG change and this can set a course for your child to feel really unstable. And that instability can leak into sleep and even feedings.

But that’s okay! That’s why we are there to comfort them and get them through these changes.

As a parent, YOU are your child’s safe place. YOU create the stability that they need. You’re not always going to be able to prevent big changes from happening to your baby, that’s why it’s important to focus on connecting with your child through every step of these changes.

Related Reading:

Growing Independence

Your baby’s growing independence is like a rocket taking off into the atmosphere- once it’s gone off, you can’t really stop it.

Your little one is experiencing the world around them like they never have before. They are seeing things differently, constantly learning new things, and becoming more aware of their personality and will.

And this translates into them wanting to Do. Everything.

Your child before was perfectly content to walk next to you holding your hand—now they want to run 20 feet in front of you and can touch everything in their sight.

Your child now might want to do what they want WHEN they want. And if they don’t want to sleep, they probably won’t just lay there quietly waiting to fall asleep. They get up and cry out to you, probably just wanting to play.

Separation Anxiety

Oh the miserable, thunder cries when you leave the room. It’s absolute torture to listen to!

Now that your toddler is experiencing these massive developmental changes and an increased sense of independence, YOU are their safe place. YOU are what’s always constant. And they might want to be around you all the time. Yes, even at 1:35 in the morning.

Added to their rapidly growing mind, they are becoming more aware of your presence like never before. Knowing where you are and where you aren’t.

This can also especially increase at night if there was a recent change in the amount of time you spend with your baby. Such as a parent returning to work.

Possible Teething

From a poor miserable baby to swollen gums, sleepless nights, and millions of drooling clothes- the teething days are far from fun.

It is totally possible that on top of all that your toddler is experiencing, they are also teething.

The second molars can come in between 25-33 months old. Unfortunately, this can easily overlap with the 2 year sleep regression. Be sure to focus on your child’s moods and actions. Are any signs or symptoms of teething?

Related Reading:

2 Year Old Sleep Regression Solutions

The good news is, now that we know the possible causes of the sleep regression/progression, we can uncover the 2 year old sleep regression solutions to help you feel confident as you help your little sleeper get back on track.

Here is the ultimate guide to 2 year old sleep regression solutions.

Be sure to reevaluate your nap routines and bedtime routines. Fill those wake windows with stimulating activities, especially in your morning routine.

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Toddler Sleep Essentials

Here’s a list of essentials that my toddler uses and loves:

Sound Machine– My kids have been using the sound machine since birth. It’s a great way to signal sleep. We incorporate it into our bedtime routine and naptime routine.

Black out Curtains– Curtains that block out light can be very helpful when it comes to torubleshooting nap issues and early wakings.

Nightlight: Hatch– when we need to go in for midnight comforts, we love to use the Hatch for lighting. You can program the Hatch to dim or brighten in different colors. It’s also an awesome sound mahcine as well with different soothing sounds.

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Recap- 2 Year Old Sleep Regression Causes

Sleep regressions do not last forever.

Yes, every minute of those long sleepless nights can feel like a year but ultimately, your child settles back into their normal sleep patterns.

The best way to guide them back to the best possible sleep is to nurture, uplift, and comfort them during this difficult time.

Sleep disruptions can do way more than just affect your nighttime- without sleep, it’s easy to become irritable, overtired, fatigued, and foggy. As a parent helping your child, your needs are valid as well.

Don’t be afraid to recruit help and tend to your mental health <3

You got this mama!

Related Reading:

Simple & Awesome Daily Toddler Schedule

5 Signs of the 2 Year Old Sleep Regression

How to Easily Handle the Terrible Twos

Toddler Screentime Rules

The Best Potty Training Essentials

Easy Toddler Bathtime Routine