Search

15 Month Sleep Regression: What Parents Need to Know

The 15-month sleep regression can be a challenging phase for parents. Learn why it happens, common signs, and effective tips to help your toddler (and you) get through this sleep disturbance period smoothly. Discover gentle sleep training methods, routine adjustments, and expert advice to overcome the 15-month sleep regression.

copy link

Do you have any problems with your toddler’s sleeping lately? If your 15-month-old is waking up early, crying at bedtime, or fighting naps, it’s likely the 15-month sleep regression. This is a common problem for many parents, but don’t worry – there are ways to deal with it.

During this what-to-do phase, first of all, consider adjusting the child’s sleep routine and environment. A consistent bedtime and calming atmosphere can work wonders. Should I let my baby cry it out during the sleep regression? While this may be effective for some babies, make sure that you respond according to their needs and comfort as they adapt through this stage.

If your child has this sleep regression early waking, try keeping the morning routine quiet and soothing so they will be encouraged to go back to sleep or rest quietly. Be patient and consistent – remember that this too shall pass. Keep reading for more tips on how to survive this challenging period.

Is There a 15-Month Sleep Regression?

Yes, there is a 15-month sleep regression. At around this age, many toddlers experience changes in their sleeping patterns which may mean struggling more with falling asleep or waking up in the middle of the night.

It’s also common for them to fight their 15-month sleep regression naps. Some may skip naps altogether while others might have shorter ones; still, some may just find it difficult to settle down for a nap when there are so many things happening around them as they become more active and aware of their surroundings.

How Long Does 15-Month Sleep Regression Last?

The typical Duration of a 15-month sleep regression is between 2 to 6 weeks. However, every child is different, and the exact length can vary depending on individual development and circumstances.

15-Month Sleep Regression Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety during regression ;phase is a big reason why many parents find their toddlers waking more often at night. When children reach about fifteen months old they begin realizing that they are separate from their caregivers which causes fearfulness or anxiousness when they can’t see or touch them.

Such fears disrupt sleep making the child wake up more frequently and struggle to fall back asleep again. Thus, a parent may be thinking why is my 15-month-old not sleeping well but it’s because now he/she knows that you can go away and never come back.

  • How to Handle Nighttime Awakenings?

When toddlers wake up crying, they usually feel scared of being alone. Therefore, setting up a bedtime routine that provides comfort will help greatly.

For instance, you can read their favorite book together with them, cuddle using a special blanket or toy which symbolizes security for them as well as playing soft music that fades out slowly after leaving the room since such things help calm down kids’ separation anxieties.

  • Reassuring Your Toddler

Spend quality time with your toddler during the day so that they feel loved and secure. This helps to build up their confidence levels. If they wake up crying at night, just give them a brief reassurance.

Keep all interactions very gentle and soothing at night this makes them understand that even if you are not in the same room with them, everything will be okay till morning comes – reinforcing safety around bedtimes.

  • Gradual Adaptation Techniques

There are also gradual adaptation techniques that may be used to manage separation anxiety in sleep regression for 15-month-old babies. A good example is where one could start by having short times of being away from the baby then increase gradually over time until much longer periods are achieved before coming back

This technique may be utilized anytime or gradually included in a nightly routine, thereby teaching your toddler to feel secure even when he can’t see you.

15-Month Sleep Regression Signs

Here are some symptoms of this developmental phase to watch for:

  • Increased fussiness or clinginess during the day can be a sign.
  • Resistance to going to sleep at bedtime or for naps, even when they seem tired.
  • More frequent wake-ups during the night, sometimes crying or calling out.
  • Early morning waking, where your child starts the day earlier than usual and seems unable to go back to sleep.
  • Refusal to nap or shorter naps than usual, which disrupts their total sleep time.
  • Increased irritability during the day, which can be due to poor sleep quality or not enough sleep.
  • Changes in appetite, which can sometimes occur with sleep disruptions.

Recognizing these signs can help you understand when your child is going through a sleep regression and adjust your routines and responses to support them better through this temporary phase.

Letting To Cry It Out: Strategy for 15-month Sleep Regression

When tackling the 15-month sleep regression, many parents wonder if letting their child "cry it out" is a good strategy. As mentioned above, this is a phase where your toddler might have more trouble sleeping due to growth and development changes. The goal is to teach them to soothe themselves back to sleep.

If you're considering this method, it's essential to ensure that all their needs are met first—like being well-fed, having a clean diaper, and ensuring the sleep environment is safe and comfortable.

When thinking about 15-month sleep regression and what to do, remember that consistency and a clear bedtime routine are crucial. This method isn't for every child or parent, so consider your child's temperament and your comfort level.

Early Waking Strategy for 15-Month Sleep Regression

Early waking during the 12-15 month sleep regression and the 14-15 month sleep regression can be particularly tough. This early waking might mean your child is getting too much sleep during the day, or it could be a sign that they need to adjust their bedtime routine.

To manage early waking, try shifting bedtime slightly later or adjusting nap times to ensure they're not sleeping too long during the day. Also, make sure the sleeping environment is conducive to rest, with a dark, quiet room that helps promote staying asleep longer in the morning.

Other Strategies to manage 15-month Sleep regression

Dealing with the 15-month sleep regression can be challenging, but there are effective strategies to help your toddler and you get through it. Here are some practical tips:

  • Maintain a consistent bedtime routine to help your child wind down and understand it's time to sleep.
  • Be patient and responsive during the night. If your child wakes up, a soothing presence can help them feel secure and go back to sleep.
  • Offer comfort items like a favorite stuffed animal or a small blanket that can help your child feel safer and more relaxed at bedtime.
  • Keep the room environment ideal for sleeping—cool, dark, and quiet.
  • During the 15-month sleep regression at night, avoid stimulating activities before bed, such as screen time or energetic play.
  • If sleep issues persist, consider seeking advice from a pediatric sleep consultant who can offer tailored advice and support.

By implementing these tips, you can help your child navigate this sleep regression more smoothly and restore peace to your nightly routine.

How to Fix Sleep Regression in 15 Month Old?

Dealing with sleep issues in your toddler can be exhausting. When figuring out how to deal with 15-month sleep regression, it's crucial to keep a consistent bedtime routine and ensure your child's sleep environment is conducive to rest.

Also, managing daytime naps to ensure they're not too long or too close to bedtime can help. Be consistent with bedtime rituals and try to stay patient; this phase is temporary and usually resolves as quickly as it appears.

How to Survive 15-Month Sleep Regression?

Surviving the 15-month sleep regression requires patience and flexibility. When tackling how to fix sleep regression in 15-month-olds, maintaining a calm and consistent bedtime routine is key. You might wonder why 15-month-old sleep regression happens—it's usually due to leaps in development that disrupt your child’s normal sleep patterns.

Adjusting the 15-month sleep schedule may be necessary, such as shifting bedtimes or modifying nap lengths. Ensure that the sleep environment remains quiet, dark, and cool, and stick to routines that signal bedtime to your toddler.

Remember, this is a phase that many parents and children go through, and it will pass with time and the right strategies.

Final Thoughts

The 15-month sleep regression can be challenging, but understanding this stage's sleep needs and behaviors can help. How much sleep does a 15-month-old need? Typically, they require about 11 to 14 hours of sleep per day, including naps.

If you find these tips not working and you're still wondering what sleep regression is at 15 months, it might be time to consult a pediatrician. Pediatricians can guide typical developmental stages and address any concerns about your child's sleep habits.

Discover Related Topics: 9 Month Sleep Regression: What Is It and How To Handle?|The 3-Month Sleep Regression Explained

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the 15 month sleep regression last?

Typically, it lasts a few weeks but can vary depending on the child.

How to deal with 15 month sleep regression?

Keep a consistent sleep schedule and maintain a soothing bedtime routine.

How to survive 15 month sleep regression?

Stay patient, adjust sleep schedules as needed, and keep bedtime calm and consistent.

What are the symptoms of 15 month sleep regression?

Increased night waking, resistance to naps, and fussiness at bedtime are common signs.

What is sleep regression 15 months?

It's a period when your toddler might experience disrupted sleep due to developmental changes.

How much sleep does a 15 month old need?

A 15-month-old typically needs about 11 to 14 hours of total sleep per day.

Why is my 15 month old not sleeping?

It could be due to developmental milestones, separation anxiety, or changes in nap routines.