What Are the Signs of A 15-Month Sleep Regression?

ByMaria Joseph Updated on
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A 15-month-old girl peacefully sleeping in a bed.

When your 15-month-old suddenly starts waking up during the night or refusing to take naps, it can be exhausting and concerning for parents.

You might ask, “How long does a 15-month sleep regression last?” Sleep regressions are common throughout a child’s development; the 15-month mark is no exception.

These temporary disruptions in sleep patterns can leave both parents and children feeling tired and frustrated.

This article looks at the 15-month sleep regression, including its signs, causes, and strategies for helping your toddler (and yourself) navigate this challenging phase.

What is a 15-month Sleep Regression?

A sleep regression is when a child previously sleeping well experiences a sudden change in their sleep habits.

During a regression, a child may have difficulty falling asleep, wake up frequently at night, or resist naps altogether.

The 15-month sleep regression is a common occurrence that often coincides with significant developmental milestones in a toddler’s life.

While every child is different, this regression typically lasts a few weeks before sleep patterns return to normal.

Signs of a 15-Month Sleep Regression

A baby crying on a bed

Parents may notice several signs that their 15-month-old is going through a sleep regression, including:

1. Trouble settling down at bedtime: Your toddler may take longer to fall asleep or resist going to bed altogether.
2. Frequent night wakings: Your child may wake up multiple times during the night and have difficulty falling back asleep.
3. Increased fussiness or clinginess: During the day, your toddler may be more irritable, clingy, or demanding, especially around nap times and bedtime.
4. Changes in appetite: Sleep disruptions can sometimes affect a toddler’s appetite, leading to changes in eating patterns or pickiness.
5. Resisting naps or taking shorter naps: Your child may suddenly refuse to take their usual naps or only sleep briefly.
6. Separation anxiety: As toddlers become more aware of their surroundings and attachments, they may experience increased separation anxiety, making it harder to sleep alone.

Causes of a 15-Month Sleep Regression

Several factors can contribute to a 15-month sleep regression, including:

  • Developmental milestones: At this age, toddlers often learn to walk, talk, and experience significant cognitive leaps. These exciting developments can temporarily disrupt sleep as their brains process new information and skills.
  • Separation anxiety: As mentioned earlier, increased separation anxiety is common around 15 months. Your toddler may become more aware of your absence and have difficulty settling down without you nearby.
  • Teething: Some toddlers may get their first molars around this time, which can cause discomfort and make sleeping harder.
  • Changes in routine: Alterations to your toddler’s daily schedule, such as starting daycare, traveling, or welcoming a new sibling, can affect their sleep patterns.

A child walking on a wooden floor in a room

Strategies for Managing a 15-Month Sleep Regression

While sleep regressions can be challenging, there are several strategies you can use to help your toddler (and yourself) cope:
1. Stick to a consistent bedtime routine: Maintain a calm, predictable bedtime routine to signal that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. This may include a warm bath, reading a story, or singing a lullaby.
2. Offer comfort and reassurance: During this time, provide extra cuddles to help your toddler feel secure. However, avoid creating new sleep associations (such as rocking or feeding to sleep) that your child may become dependent on.
3. Encourage independent sleep: Help your toddler learn to fall asleep independently by putting them down drowsy but awake. This allows them to develop the skill of self-soothing and falling asleep on their own.
4. Be flexible with naps: If your child resists naps, try adjusting the timing or duration to find what works best. Some toddlers may benefit from a slightly later or earlier nap or shorter duration.
5. Practice patience: Sleep regressions are normal for child development and will pass with time. Stay consistent with your sleep routines and boundaries, and remain patient and understanding during this challenging phase.

When to Seek Help?

While most sleep regressions resolve on their own within a few weeks, there may be times when you need additional support.

If your toddler’s sleep regression persists beyond a month or you have concerns about their sleep habits, it’s essential to consult your pediatrician.

They can rule out any underlying health issues affecting sleep and provide personalized guidance on improving your child’s sleep hygiene.

Conclusion

Experiencing a 15-month sleep regression can be tiring and frustrating for parents and toddlers.

However, by understanding the signs, causes, and coping strategies, you can help your child navigate this challenging phase.

Remember, the question “how long does 15 month sleep regression last?” is common, and the answer is that it is usually temporary, lasting a few weeks.

By maintaining a consistent bedtime routine, offering comfort and reassurance, and encouraging independent sleep, you can support your toddler through this regression and help them return to healthy sleep habits.

If you have ongoing concerns about your child’s sleep, don’t hesitate to contact your pediatrician for guidance and support.

Maria Joseph

Maria Joseph brings over a decade of experience in early childhood education and development to her writing. Holding a Master’s degree in Child Psychology from the University of Michigan, she has worked as a preschool teacher and a child therapist before turning her passion into writing insightful and supportive content for parents and caregivers. Joining our team in 2022, Maria has been instrumental in creating resources that foster a nurturing and educational environment for children. Beyond her professional life, Maria enjoys hiking and photography, often capturing the wonders of nature through a child’s eyes.

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