Sleep regressions are a common occurrence in early childhood, and the 22 month sleep regression is one of the most challenging. Occurring between 21 and 24 months of age, this sleep regression can cause a child who was previously sleeping well to suddenly start waking up multiple times at night, refusing to go to sleep, and taking short naps.
While the 22 month sleep regression can be frustrating for parents, it is important to remember that it is a temporary phase that will eventually pass. In the meantime, there are some things you can do to help your child get through this sleep regression and get back to sleeping peacefully.
Let's take a closer look at what the 22 month sleep regression is, what causes it, and what you can do to help your child get through it.
22 month sleep regression
Temporary sleep disruption in toddlers.
- Common between 21-24 months.
- Multiple night wakings.
- Refusal to go to sleep.
- Short naps.
- Caused by developmental changes.
- Separation anxiety.
- Teething.
- Illness.
Usually resolves within a few weeks.
Common between 21-24 months.
The 22 month sleep regression is a common sleep disruption that occurs in toddlers between the ages of 21 and 24 months. It is characterized by a sudden change in sleep patterns, including:
- Multiple night wakings
- Refusal to go to sleep
- Short naps
- Early morning wakings
The 22 month sleep regression is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including:
- Developmental changes: Toddlers at this age are going through a period of rapid cognitive and emotional development. They are learning new skills, such as walking and talking, and they are also starting to understand the concept of time. These changes can make it difficult for toddlers to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Separation anxiety: Toddlers at this age are also starting to experience separation anxiety. They may be afraid to go to sleep because they don't want to be away from their parents. This can make it difficult for them to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Teething: Teething can also disrupt sleep in toddlers. The pain and discomfort of teething can make it difficult for toddlers to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Illness: Illness can also disrupt sleep in toddlers. A sick toddler may have difficulty breathing, which can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.
The 22 month sleep regression can be a challenging time for parents, but it is important to remember that it is a temporary phase. With patience and consistency, you can help your toddler get through this sleep regression and back to sleeping peacefully.
Multiple night wakings.
One of the most common symptoms of the 22 month sleep regression is multiple night wakings. Toddlers who were previously sleeping through the night may suddenly start waking up multiple times per night.
- Separation anxiety: Toddlers at this age are going through a period of separation anxiety. They may wake up at night because they are afraid to be alone. This is especially common if your toddler is used to co-sleeping with you.
- Nightmares: Toddlers at this age are also starting to have nightmares. Nightmares can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, and changes in routine. Nightmares can wake your toddler up and make it difficult for them to fall back asleep.
- Teething: Teething can also cause night wakings in toddlers. The pain and discomfort of teething can make it difficult for toddlers to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Hunger: Toddlers at this age are also going through a period of rapid growth. They may need to eat more frequently, even at night. If your toddler is waking up at night because they are hungry, try offering them a small snack before bed.
If your toddler is experiencing multiple night wakings, there are a few things you can do to help them get back to sleeping through the night:
- Make sure your toddler is getting enough sleep during the day. Toddlers need 11-14 hours of sleep per day, including naps.
- Establish a regular bedtime routine. A bedtime routine can help your toddler wind down before bed and get ready for sleep.
- Create a calming bedtime environment. Make sure your toddler's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
- Avoid giving your toddler caffeine or sugar before bed. Caffeine and sugar can make it difficult for toddlers to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Refusal to go to sleep.
Another common symptom of the 22 month sleep regression is refusal to go to sleep. Toddlers who were previously eager to go to bed may suddenly start fighting bedtime. They may refuse to get into their bed, they may cry and scream, or they may try to escape from their bedroom.
There are a few reasons why toddlers may refuse to go to sleep during the 22 month sleep regression:
- Separation anxiety: Toddlers at this age are going through a period of separation anxiety. They may be afraid to go to sleep because they don't want to be away from their parents. This is especially common if your toddler is used to co-sleeping with you.
- Overtiredness: Toddlers who are overtired may also refuse to go to sleep. When toddlers are overtired, they may become fussy, irritable, and resistant to sleep. This can make it difficult for them to fall asleep, even if they are exhausted.
- Bedtime resistance: Some toddlers simply don't want to go to bed. They may see bedtime as a loss of control, or they may simply prefer to stay up and play. This is especially common in toddlers who are strong-willed or independent.
If your toddler is refusing to go to sleep, there are a few things you can do to help them:
- Make sure your toddler is getting enough sleep during the day. Toddlers need 11-14 hours of sleep per day, including naps. If your toddler is not getting enough sleep during the day, they may be overtired at bedtime and more likely to refuse to go to sleep.
- Establish a regular bedtime routine. A bedtime routine can help your toddler wind down before bed and get ready for sleep. A typical bedtime routine might include taking a bath, reading a book, and singing a lullaby.
- Create a calming bedtime environment. Make sure your toddler's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. You may also want to use a white noise machine or a humidifier to help create a more relaxing environment.
- Avoid giving your toddler caffeine or sugar before bed. Caffeine and sugar can make it difficult for toddlers to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Be patient and consistent. It may take some time for your toddler to adjust to the new bedtime routine. Be patient and consistent with your approach, and eventually your toddler will learn to go to sleep without a fuss.
Short naps.
Another common symptom of the 22 month sleep regression is short naps. Toddlers who were previously taking long naps may suddenly start taking short naps, or they may refuse to nap altogether.
- Overtiredness: Toddlers who are overtired may have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep for naps. This can lead to short naps or even skipped naps.
- Developmental changes: Toddlers at this age are going through a period of rapid cognitive and emotional development. This can make it difficult for them to relax and fall asleep during naps.
- Separation anxiety: Toddlers who are experiencing separation anxiety may also have difficulty taking naps. They may be afraid to go to sleep because they don't want to be away from their parents.
- Teething: Teething can also disrupt naps in toddlers. The pain and discomfort of teething can make it difficult for toddlers to fall asleep and stay asleep.
If your toddler is taking short naps or refusing to nap altogether, there are a few things you can do to help them:
- Make sure your toddler is getting enough sleep at night. Toddlers need 11-14 hours of sleep per day, including naps. If your toddler is not getting enough sleep at night, they may be overtired and more likely to have difficulty taking naps.
- Establish a regular nap routine. A nap routine can help your toddler wind down before naptime and get ready for sleep. A typical nap routine might include reading a book, singing a lullaby, or giving your toddler a back rub.
- Create a calming naptime environment. Make sure your toddler's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. You may also want to use a white noise machine or a humidifier to help create a more relaxing environment.
- Avoid giving your toddler caffeine or sugar before naptime. Caffeine and sugar can make it difficult for toddlers to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Be patient and consistent. It may take some time for your toddler to adjust to the new naptime routine. Be patient and consistent with your approach, and eventually your toddler will learn to take long, restful naps.
Caused by developmental changes.
One of the main causes of the 22 month sleep regression is developmental changes. Toddlers at this age are going through a period of rapid cognitive and emotional development. They are learning new skills, such as walking and talking, and they are also starting to understand the concept of time.
- Increased awareness of the world around them: Toddlers at this age are becoming more aware of the world around them. They are noticing new things and experiencing new emotions. This can make it difficult for them to relax and fall asleep.
- Separation anxiety: Toddlers at this age are also starting to experience separation anxiety. They may be afraid to go to sleep because they don't want to be away from their parents. This is especially common if your toddler is used to co-sleeping with you.
- Increased independence: Toddlers at this age are also starting to become more independent. They want to do things for themselves, and they may resist going to sleep because they don't want to be told what to do.
- Changes in sleep patterns: Toddlers' sleep patterns are also changing at this age. They may start to wake up earlier in the morning or they may take shorter naps. These changes in sleep patterns can make it difficult for toddlers to get the sleep they need.
All of these developmental changes can contribute to the sleep regression that occurs at 22 months. It is important to remember that this sleep regression is temporary and that your toddler will eventually return to sleeping well.
Separation anxiety.
Separation anxiety is a common cause of sleep problems in toddlers, including the 22 month sleep regression. Separation anxiety is a fear of being away from a loved one, typically a parent. Toddlers with separation anxiety may cry and protest when they are left alone, even for a short period of time.
- Toddlers' growing awareness of their surroundings: As toddlers start to explore their environment and realize that they are separate individuals from their parents, they may become anxious when they are left alone. This is especially true at bedtime, when they may be afraid of being alone in their room.
- Changes in routine: Toddlers are creatures of habit, and any changes to their routine can cause anxiety. This includes changes in bedtime routine, such as a new bedtime or a new person putting them to bed.
- Stressful events: Stressful events, such as moving to a new house or starting preschool, can also trigger separation anxiety in toddlers.
- Inconsistent parenting: Toddlers who are not used to being left alone may develop separation anxiety if their parents are inconsistent with their approach to bedtime. For example, if a parent sometimes lets their toddler stay up late and other times puts them to bed early, the toddler may become anxious about bedtime because they don't know what to expect.
If your toddler is experiencing separation anxiety, there are a few things you can do to help them:
- Be patient and understanding. Separation anxiety is a normal part of toddler development. It is important to be patient and understanding with your toddler while they are going through this phase.
- Talk to your toddler about their fears. Help your toddler to understand that it is okay to be afraid, but that they are safe. You can also talk to them about what will happen at bedtime and reassure them that you will be there for them when they wake up.
- Create a consistent bedtime routine. A consistent bedtime routine can help your toddler to feel more secure and less anxious about bedtime. Make sure the routine is calming and relaxing, and avoid any activities that might excite your toddler.
- Stay with your toddler until they fall asleep. If your toddler is very anxious, you may need to stay with them until they fall asleep. This will help them to feel safe and secure.
Teething.
Teething is another common cause of sleep problems in toddlers, including the 22 month sleep regression. Teething can cause pain, discomfort, and inflammation in the gums. This can make it difficult for toddlers to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Pain and discomfort: The pain and discomfort of teething can make it difficult for toddlers to fall asleep and stay asleep. They may wake up crying or screaming in pain.
- Inflammation: Teething can also cause inflammation in the gums. This inflammation can make it difficult for toddlers to suck and swallow, which can lead to feeding problems. Feeding problems can then lead to sleep problems, as toddlers who are not getting enough to eat may be more likely to wake up at night.
- Increased saliva production: Teething can also cause increased saliva production. This can make toddlers feel uncomfortable and lead to drooling. Drooling can then lead to a sore throat, which can also make it difficult to sleep.
- Changes in sleep patterns: Teething can also disrupt toddlers' sleep patterns. Toddlers who are teething may wake up more frequently at night or they may have difficulty falling asleep in the first place.
If your toddler is teething, there are a few things you can do to help them:
- Give your toddler a teething ring or toy. Teething rings and toys can help to soothe your toddler's gums and provide them with something to chew on.
- Massage your toddler's gums. Gently massaging your toddler's gums can help to relieve pain and discomfort.
- Give your toddler a cold drink or food. Cold drinks and foods can help to numb the pain of teething.
- Use a pain reliever. If your toddler is in a lot of pain, you may need to give them a pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Illness.
Illness is another common cause of sleep problems in toddlers, including the 22 month sleep regression. When toddlers are sick, they may have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. This is because illness can cause a variety of symptoms, such as pain, discomfort, and fever, which can make it difficult to sleep.
- Fever: Fever is a common symptom of illness in toddlers. Fever can make toddlers feel uncomfortable and restless, which can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Congestion: Congestion is another common symptom of illness in toddlers. Congestion can make it difficult for toddlers to breathe, which can also make it difficult to sleep.
- Cough: Cough is another common symptom of illness in toddlers. Coughing can wake toddlers up at night and make it difficult for them to fall back asleep.
- Pain: Pain is another common symptom of illness in toddlers. Pain can make it difficult for toddlers to fall asleep and stay asleep.
If your toddler is sick, there are a few things you can do to help them sleep better:
- Make sure your toddler is comfortable. Make sure your toddler's bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet. You may also want to use a humidifier to help relieve congestion.
- Give your toddler plenty of fluids. Fluids can help to keep your toddler's throat moist and prevent dehydration.
- Use a pain reliever. If your toddler is in pain, you may need to give them a pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Be patient and understanding. When toddlers are sick, they may be more fussy and irritable than usual. Be patient and understanding with your toddler while they are sick.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the 22 month sleep regression:
Question 1: What is the 22 month sleep regression?
Answer 1: The 22 month sleep regression is a common sleep disruption that occurs in toddlers between the ages of 21 and 24 months. It is characterized by a sudden change in sleep patterns, including multiple night wakings, refusal to go to sleep, and short naps.
Question 2: What causes the 22 month sleep regression?
Answer 2: The 22 month sleep regression is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including developmental changes, separation anxiety, teething, and illness.
Question 3: How long does the 22 month sleep regression last?
Answer 3: The 22 month sleep regression typically lasts for 2-4 weeks, but it can sometimes last longer. However, it is important to remember that this sleep regression is temporary and that your toddler will eventually return to sleeping well.
Question 4: What can I do to help my toddler through the 22 month sleep regression?
Answer 4: There are a few things you can do to help your toddler through the 22 month sleep regression, including:
- Make sure your toddler is getting enough sleep during the day.
- Establish a regular bedtime routine.
- Create a calming bedtime environment.
- Avoid giving your toddler caffeine or sugar before bed.
- Be patient and consistent.
Question 5: When should I be concerned about my toddler's sleep?
Answer 5: If your toddler's sleep problems are severe or are causing you or your toddler distress, you should talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine if there is an underlying medical condition that is causing your toddler's sleep problems.
Question 6: What are some tips for preventing the 22 month sleep regression?
Answer 6: While there is no surefire way to prevent the 22 month sleep regression, there are a few things you can do to help your toddler sleep better, including:
- Establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it as much as possible, even on weekends.
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine that helps your toddler wind down before bed.
- Make sure your toddler's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
- Avoid giving your toddler caffeine or sugar before bed.
- Be patient and consistent with your approach to bedtime.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ: I hope this FAQ has been helpful in answering your questions about the 22 month sleep regression. Remember, this sleep regression is temporary and with patience and consistency, you can help your toddler get back to sleeping well.
In addition to the tips provided in the FAQ, here are some additional tips that may help your toddler sleep better during the 22 month sleep regression:
Tips
Here are some additional tips that may help your toddler sleep better during the 22 month sleep regression:
Tip 1: Offer comfort and reassurance. Your toddler may be feeling anxious or scared during the sleep regression. Offer them comfort and reassurance by staying with them until they fall asleep, rubbing their back, or singing them a song.
Tip 2: Avoid giving in to your toddler's demands. It may be tempting to give in to your toddler's demands in order to get them to sleep. However, this will only make the sleep regression worse in the long run. Be firm and consistent with your bedtime routine and your toddler will eventually learn to accept it.
Tip 3: Be patient and consistent. The 22 month sleep regression is a temporary phase. It is important to be patient and consistent with your approach to bedtime. Eventually, your toddler will return to sleeping well.
Tip 4: Talk to your doctor. If your toddler's sleep problems are severe or are causing you or your toddler distress, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine if there is an underlying medical condition that is causing your toddler's sleep problems.
Closing Paragraph for Tips: I hope these tips have been helpful in helping your toddler sleep better during the 22 month sleep regression. Remember, this sleep regression is temporary and with patience and consistency, you can help your toddler get back to sleeping well.
In conclusion, the 22 month sleep regression is a common sleep disruption that can be challenging for both toddlers and parents. However, by understanding the causes of the sleep regression and by using the tips and strategies provided in this article, you can help your toddler get through this phase and back to sleeping well.
Conclusion
The 22 month sleep regression is a common sleep disruption that can be challenging for both toddlers and parents. However, it is important to remember that this sleep regression is temporary and that with patience and consistency, you can help your toddler get through it and back to sleeping well.
The main points to remember about the 22 month sleep regression are:
- It is a common sleep disruption that occurs in toddlers between the ages of 21 and 24 months.
- It is characterized by a sudden change in sleep patterns, including multiple night wakings, refusal to go to sleep, and short naps.
- It is caused by a combination of factors, including developmental changes, separation anxiety, teething, and illness.
- It typically lasts for 2-4 weeks, but it can sometimes last longer.
- There are a number of things you can do to help your toddler through the sleep regression, including establishing a regular bedtime routine, creating a calming bedtime environment, and avoiding giving your toddler caffeine or sugar before bed.
If you are concerned about your toddler's sleep, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine if there is an underlying medical condition that is causing your toddler's sleep problems.
Closing Message: Remember, the 22 month sleep regression is a temporary phase. With patience, consistency, and the tips provided in this article, you can help your toddler get back to sleeping well.