LET’S TALK TODDLERS

Another common sleep regression period Petro encounters in her practice is around 18 months. “When a baby goes from babyhood to toddlerhood, the big developmental jump nearly always causes them to start testing the boundaries. They become toddlers in full force, and if you don’t stick to your guns and sleep routines, these little ones will regress massively,” she warns.

And just because your toddler is resisting bedtime, this does not mean you need to make bedtime later, Petro emphasises. Perhaps the best thing to remember about sleep regressions is that they’re temporary, usually lasting about two to three weeks. Your toddler or baby may be a bit more snuggly, needy or sleepresistant during this time, but follow your gut. Don’t change the rules, and they will bounce back quickly.

And so will you!