 The 2-Year Sleep Regression: Why Your Toddler’s Sleep Just Fell ApartIf your toddler just turned 2 and suddenly refuses bedtime, fights naps, or wakes up crying at night… you’re likely facing the 24-month sleep regression. This one’s a doozy—because at this age, your toddler has opinions, words, and stamina to push back on sleep in a whole new way. As a pediatric sleep consultant, I see this regression hit even the most sleep-trained toddlers. The good news? There are clear, effective ways to work through it.  What Causes the 2-Year Sleep Regression?At age two, your toddler is in a major leap of independence and development. You’ll likely notice:
 Signs of the 24-Month Sleep Regression
How Long Does the 2-Year Sleep Regression Last?Like most regressions, the 24-month sleep regression usually lasts 2 to 4 weeks—but only if handled with consistency. If you start laying down with your toddler every night or bringing them into your bed, those habits can stick around a lot longer than the regression itself.  How to Handle the 24-Month Sleep Regression
Not sure if it’s still a regression—or something else entirely?By age 2, sleep can get disrupted by imagination, boundary testing, and life transitions. If your toddler’s sleep has been off for more than a few weeks, it may be time to talk it through. An Ask Me Anything Call is ideal if:
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Let’s figure it out together.  Need a Proven Plan for This Regression?My Sleep Regression Solution Guide will help you handle the 24-month regression and give you tools to keep sleep on track through future bumps.
Inside you’ll get:
The toddler years are full of big transitions—and yes, some big emotions. But sleep doesn’t have to be one long battle. With the right strategies, you can get through this phase and get your evenings (and nights) back. You've got this—and I'm here to help every step of the way. — Erin, B.A. Psychology, Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, Infant Mental Health, Integrated Feeding Specialist  The 18-Month Sleep Regression: What’s Going On and How to Handle ItIs your once-solid sleeper suddenly fighting bedtime, waking up during the night, or throwing a tantrum when it’s time for a nap? You may be facing the 18-month sleep regression—a very real and very frustrating phase that can catch even the most well-rested families off guard. As a certified pediatric sleep consultant, I’ve supported many families through this particular regression, and here’s the truth: this one is a little more emotional, a little more dramatic—and a lot more behaviour-driven. Let’s talk about why this regression happens, how long it lasts, and what you can do to support your toddler through it without backtracking on sleep.  What Causes the 18-Month Sleep Regression?At 18 months, your toddler is in the thick of major developmental and emotional changes:
Your toddler suddenly says “No!” to bedtime, refuses naps, or wakes up at 2:00 a.m. demanding snuggles, snacks, or songs. This is when many parents feel blindsided and start to wonder: Are we doing something wrong? You’re not. This is all part of toddlerhood—and it’s temporary with the right approach.  Signs of the 18-Month Sleep Regression
How Long Does the 18-Month Sleep Regression Last?The 18-month sleep regression typically lasts 2 to 6 weeks, but it can drag on longer if your toddler starts to rely on new habits like sleeping in your bed, needing to be rocked to sleep again, or getting snacks at night. The key is staying consistent and supportive—without giving in to every protest.  How to Handle the 18-Month Sleep Regression
Wondering if this is a regression or something deeper?The 18-month regression can feel like toddler sleep has completely unraveled. If you’re unsure whether it’s just a phase—or if it’s time for more structured support—I’m here to help. 🎯 Book an Ask Me Anything Call here We’ll talk about:
 Want a Proven Plan to Handle Every Sleep Regression? My Sleep Regression Solution Guide is your go-to toolkit for navigating the most common sleep setbacks—without creating new habits you’ll have to undo later. Inside, you’ll find:
You don’t have to let this phase undo your progress. With the right support, your toddler can get back to sleeping soundly—and so can you. 💛 — Erin, B.A. Psychology, Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, Infant Mental Health, Integrated Feeding Specialist  The 12-Month Sleep Regression: Why It's Happening and What to Do About ItHas your baby suddenly started waking during the night again, fighting naps, or resisting bedtime as they near their first birthday? If so, you might be dealing with the 12-month sleep regression—a frustrating (but totally normal) phase that can turn sleep upside down just when you thought you’d found your rhythm. As a certified pediatric sleep consultant, I’ve helped countless families navigate the ups and downs of regressions—including the tricky one-year mark. And here’s what I want you to know: this regression doesn’t have to derail your progress. Let’s break down what’s behind the 12-month sleep regression, how long it typically lasts, and most importantly—what you can do to get sleep back on track.  What Is the 12-Month Sleep Regression?The 12-month sleep regression is a period of disrupted sleep that often happens right around your child’s first birthday. You might notice:
 What Causes the 12-Month Sleep Regression?A lot is going on developmentally around 12 months, and these big leaps can absolutely impact sleep:
 How Long Does the 12-Month Sleep Regression Last?Most sleep regressions—including the 12-month sleep regression—last anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks. But how you respond during this phase can make a big difference. If you suddenly start rocking or feeding your baby to sleep every time they wake, or if you rush to drop a nap that they’re not actually ready to lose, you may find that the short-term sleep disruption becomes a longer-term habit. How to Handle the 12-Month Sleep RegressionHere are my top sleep consultant tips for getting through this regression:
 Is It Really a Regression—Or Something More?Sometimes what looks like a sleep regression is actually a sign of a bigger sleep challenge. If your baby has never slept well, or if you were already struggling with frequent wakings, short naps, or bedtime battles before this phase began, it might be more than just a regression. If you’re unsure whether this is a temporary setback or a deeper issue with sleep habits, I’d love to help. I offer a 30-minute Ask Me Anything call where we can talk through your child’s sleep, see if I can give you some actionable steps to take, and see whether they’d benefit from more personalized support. 👉 Book Ask Me Anything Call Here  Want Help Getting Through the 12-Month Sleep Regression?My Sleep Regression Solution Guide is your go-to toolkit for navigating the most common sleep setbacks—without creating new habits you’ll have to undo later. Inside, you’ll find:
Sleep regressions are tough—but they’re temporary. With the right support, your little one can get back to restful, independent sleep—and so can you. You don’t have to guess your way through this. I’m here to help you every step of the way. 💛 — Erin, B.A. Psychology, Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, Infant Mental Health, Integrated Feeding Specialist  The 8-10 Month Sleep Regression: What’s Going On and How to Get Through ItIf your baby has suddenly started waking more often at night, skipping naps, or fighting bedtime like never before, you might be in the thick of the 8-10 month sleep regression. And I know how exhausting that can be. As a certified pediatric sleep coach, I’ve helped hundreds of families navigate this exact phase—and I want you to know: you’re not alone, and this doesn’t have to derail your sleep forever. Let’s walk through what’s really going on during this stage, why it’s happening, and what you can do to survive—and even thrive—through it.  What Is the 8-10 Month Sleep Regression?The 8-month sleep regression (which can happen anytime between 8 and 10 months) is a totally normal, developmental stage where your baby’s sleep suddenly becomes disrupted. This might mean:
 What Causes the 8-10 Month Sleep Regression?Several major developmental leaps happen between 8 and 10 months, and they can all impact sleep. These include:
 How Long Does the 8 to 10-Month Sleep Regression Last?Most sleep regressions last around 2 to 6 weeks. But here’s the key: how you respond during this regression matters. Without support or structure, short-term sleep struggles can become long-term habits. If your baby is suddenly waking multiple times a night and you're rocking, feeding, or bouncing them back to sleep each time—understandably just trying to survive!—they may start to rely on those responses going forward. That’s why many families reach out to me during regressions: to stay on track and avoid forming habits that stick around long after the regression ends.  Tips to Survive the 8-10 Month Sleep RegressionHere’s what I recommend:
 Is It Really a Sleep Regression?Sometimes, what looks like a regression is actually a sign of an underlying sleep issue—like an overtired schedule, a reliance on sleep associations, or an inconsistent sleep environment. If your child has never been a good sleeper, or things were already tough before this regression hit, it’s worth asking: Is this truly a temporary phase—or has sleep been a struggle for a while? If you’re not sure, I invite you to book a 30-minute Ask Me Any Thing Call with me. We’ll talk through what’s going on and figure out whether your little one is experiencing a short-term regression… or if it’s time to get personalized support. 👉 Book Ask Me Anything Call  Need Help Getting Through the 8-10 Month Sleep Regression?If this is definitely a regression and your baby was sleeping well before—it’s still tough, but there’s good news: you don’t have to figure it out alone. My Sleep Regression Solution Guide is designed to walk you through the 8-10-month regression and prepare you for future ones, too. It’s packed with gentle strategies for getting sleep back on track, and tools to stay consistent even through the toughest nights. 👉 Grab the Sleep Regression Solution Guide (Perfect for 4, 8-10, 12, 18 and 24-month regressions!) Sleep regressions are hard, but they don’t have to break your progress—or your spirit. With the right strategies and support, you can help your baby (and yourself) get back to restful, consistent sleep.
You’ve got this. And I’ve got you. 💛 — Erin, B.A. Psychology, Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, Infant Mental Health, Integrated Feeding Specialist  The 4-Month Sleep Regression: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Get Through ItIf your newborn was sleeping great for long stretches and then--bam—suddenly starts waking up constantly, taking short naps, and fussing at bedtime, you may be dealing with the dreaded 4-month sleep regression. As a certified pediatric sleep consultant, I can tell you: this is one of the most common and confusing sleep challenges parents face. It feels like it comes out of nowhere—and it’s completely exhausting. Let’s unpack what the 4-month sleep regression is, why it happens, how long it lasts, and what you can do (right now) to survive it—and come out stronger on the other side.  What Is the 4-Month Sleep Regression?The 4-month sleep regression is a permanent developmental change in how your baby sleeps. Around 3.5 to 4.5 months, your baby’s sleep cycles mature and begin to look more like an adult’s—moving between lighter and deeper stages of sleep. As a result, your baby now experiences partial arousals between sleep cycles—every 45 minutes during naps and every 2-4 hours overnight. If they don’t know how to fall asleep on their own yet, they’ll wake fully and cry out for the same conditions they had at bedtime (like rocking, feeding, or bouncing).  Signs of the 4-Month Sleep RegressionYou might be noticing:
Which means… this is the perfect time to teach healthy sleep habits that last.  How Long Does the 4-Month Sleep Regression Last?If no changes are made, the struggles can continue indefinitely. Some babies start waking every hour and stay stuck in that pattern for weeks or even months. But the good news? With the right guidance, your baby can learn to connect sleep cycles and fall asleep independently. That’s why so many families reach out to me at this stage—because this is one of the most impactful points to shape lifelong healthy sleep.  How to Get Through the 4-Month Sleep Regression Here’s what I recommend to my clients:
 Not sure what to do next?If you’re in the thick of the 4-month sleep regression and want expert support to make sure you’re on the right track, book an Ask Me Anything Call with me. This 1:1 call is perfect if:
👉 Book an Ask Me Anything Call here  Want a Proven Plan to Handle Every Sleep Regression? My Sleep Regression Solution Guide is your go-to toolkit for navigating the most common sleep setbacks—without creating new habits you’ll have to undo later. Inside, you’ll find:
You don’t have to white-knuckle your way through this stage. With the right tools and support, your baby can sleep beautifully—and so can you. 💛
You’ve got this. And I’ve got you. — Erin, B.A. Psychology, Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, Infant Mental Health, Integrated Feeding Specialist  Why Is My Toddler or Preschooler Suddenly Not Sleeping Well? As a parent, it’s not uncommon to find yourself asking, “What happened to my great sleeper?” Toddlers and preschoolers who once slept soundly through the night may begin to experience sleep disruptions. But why? The reality is that as your child grows and develops, their sleep habits can change—sometimes dramatically. Let’s explore some common issues that could derail your toddler or preschooler’s sleep and offer solutions to get them back on track. Why Is My Toddler or Preschooler Struggling to Sleep? Toddlerhood is an exciting yet challenging phase for both children and their parents. Research published in Sleep Medicine Reviews highlights that toddlers often delay bedtime, seek more attention, and wake up during the night as they assert their growing independence. These behaviours are normal and closely tied to the developmental changes happening at this age【4†source】. Here are some common factors that may be affecting your toddler’s sleep:
Solutions for Better Sleep If your toddler or preschooler’s sleep has been derailed, don’t worry—there are steps you can take to get back on track. Here are a few tips to help:
Final Thoughts Sleep disruptions in toddlers and preschoolers can be frustrating. Still, they are often temporary and can be managed with a few adjustments. By understanding the factors that might impact your child’s sleep and implementing some simple strategies, you can help them (and yourself!) get the rest they need. If you’re struggling with your toddler’s sleep, I’m here to help! Feel free to reach out for personalized support and guidance. AuthorErin Neri - Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant and Owner of To The Moon and Back Sleep Consulting since 2016.  The Do’s and Don’ts of Room Sharing with Your Baby: A Guide for Parents As a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, I understand that room sharing with your baby can be both a comforting and challenging experience. While the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room sharing for at least the first six months—up to one year ideally—for the benefits it brings, it’s essential to navigate this time with a balance that promotes restful sleep for everyone involved. Here’s what you need to know about the do’s and don’ts of room sharing. The Do’s of Room Sharing
The Don’ts of Room Sharing
Finding the Balance Room sharing can be a wonderful way to keep your baby close and safe during those early months, but it’s essential to find a balance that works for your family. While sleep experts agree that everyone would ideally have their own sleep space, that’s not always possible. By incorporating strategies like using white noise and creating a small barrier between you and your baby, you can improve the quality of sleep for everyone. Remember, your family’s well-being is the priority. If room sharing is the best option for your situation, know that you can make it work. And when the time comes, transitioning your baby to their own room can be a positive step for everyone’s sleep health. As your Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, I’m here to support you every step of the way.  AuthorErin Neri - Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant and Owner of To The Moon and Back Sleep Consulting since 2016. Learn how gradual sleep coaching techniques can lead to long-term success, and make sure not to change the pattern for any reason! Sleep is one of the most critical aspects of early childhood development, but many parents struggle to establish consistent sleep patterns for their babies and toddlers. While sleep training can seem overwhelming, gradual sleep coaching techniques can lead to long-term success. With the right strategies, parents can help their baby take better naps, eliminate early morning wake-ups, and get their child to sleep better throughout the night. Let's dive into how these techniques can bring harmony to bedtime routines.  A happy mommy is a happy baby. Gradual sleep coaching is a method that involves gently teaching babies to fall asleep on their own without relying on sleep props like pacifiers or rocking. Unlike abrupt methods, such as "cry it out," this approach prioritizes a slower, step-by-step process to help the baby adjust. This minimizes stress for both the child and the parents. Over time, it helps babies learn to soothe themselves and fall asleep independently. This method can help your baby take better naps during the day. Consistent nap routines Establishing consistent nap routines is often one of the biggest challenges for parents. Babies have trouble consolidating daytime sleep, frequently waking up after short naps. Parents can ensure that their child’s sleep environment is dark, free from distractions, and consistent to improve naps. White noise machines or blackout curtains can also help babies stay asleep longer by blocking out sudden noises or daylight. One of the most common sleep issues parents face is early morning wake-ups. Waking up too early can affect a child’s mood and energy levels throughout the day, not to mention disrupting the entire family's schedule. Gradual sleep coaching techniques can help move early morning wake-ups to a more reasonable time by adjusting bedtime and managing the child’s sleep environment. The first step is assessing the child’s total sleep time. Often, an early wake-up is caused by an overtired or overstimulated child. Making gradual adjustments to the bedtime routine, such as putting your baby to bed earlier or introducing a calming activity before bed, can lead to longer and more consistent sleep. Also, ensure that your child wakes up simultaneously every day. This helps regulate their internal clock, making it easier to eliminate early morning wake-ups altogether.  A bedtime story is for everyone. Help Your Child Sleep Better Long-term sleep success hinges on getting your child to sleep through the night. This is where gradual sleep coaching truly shines. When done correctly, this approach can help your child sleep better by addressing underlying habits that disrupt sleep. For example, many babies rely on being rocked, fed, or held to fall asleep, but once they wake up in the middle of the night, they cannot get back to sleep without help. Gradually, you can teach your child to self-soothe by slowly reducing your involvement in their sleep routine. Instead of immediately intervening when they wake up, allow a few minutes for them to settle themselves. This might involve reducing the time spent rocking them or slowly transitioning from feeding them to using other calming techniques like gentle back patting or a comforting voice. Consistency is the main step during this process. If you maintain the same bedtime and sleep routine every night, children will be more likely to develop the skills they need to sleep independently. Gradual sleep coaching is not a quick fix—it requires time, patience, and persistence. However, the long-term benefits are worth the effort. Children who learn to fall asleep on their own sleep better and develop healthier sleep habits that can last a lifetime. Sleep Pattern During Moving Parents often feel overwhelmed by sleep training, especially during a relocation. In most cases, they turn to a company such as Harris Movers, which understands the importance of healthy sleep, especially during stressful times like moving. Maintaining sleep routines during major life changes, such as moving homes, is necessary to provide consistency for your child. They can help parents navigate challenges and develop a sleep coaching plan that fits their family’s needs. Regarding sleep coaching, gradual techniques allow parents to nurture healthy sleep habits over time, avoiding the stress of more intense methods. These approaches are designed to support both the baby and the parents through the process, making it easier to implement lasting changes. Sleep coaching offers a more peaceful way to create consistent sleep patterns, improve naps, address early wake-ups, and help children sleep better. The Importance of a Pre-Sleep Routine Creating a calming pre-sleep routine is another essential strategy in gradual sleep coaching. A soothing bedtime routine helps signal the baby that it’s time to sleep. This could include a warm bath, a gentle massage, or reading a short bedtime story. Over time, consistent routines help babies associate certain activities with sleep, making it easier for them to fall asleep. Ensuring the baby’s sleep environment is consistent across naps and nighttime also reinforces the sleep routine, promoting better sleep habits.  Sleeping a baby means a happy family; learn how gradual sleep coaching techniques can lead to long-term success. It’s important to note that gradual sleep coaching isn’t just about improving the child’s sleep. It also benefits parents by reducing stress and promoting family well-being. Parents feel empowered as they see progress with minimal tears. The gentle nature of this approach allows families to remain consistent without the emotional toll that harsher methods can cause. Gradual sleep coaching fosters a positive sleep environment that promotes long-term healthy sleep habits for the entire family.
Gradual Sleep Coaching Techniques Can Lead to Long-Term Success So, now you know. Gradual sleep coaching techniques can lead to long-term success. This method builds long-term healthy habits without overwhelming parents or babies. You can create a calm, consistent bedtime routine that makes sleep easier. Adjusting your baby’s environment helps with naps, early wake-ups, and sleeping through the night. As your child learns to self-soothe, they will begin sleeping better, and your stress levels will decrease. Consistency and patience are key. Small, steady changes lead to lasting success. This approach benefits the whole family, creating a peaceful and restful environment. Gradual sleep coaching supports both your baby’s sleep needs and your emotional well-being. Photos via: Pexels Pexels Pexels  Saying Bye to Bottles: Transition Tips for Toddlers A Parents GuideWhen to Ditch the Bottle: A Guide for Parents. As a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, one of the most common questions I receive from parents is about when to transition their child from a bottle to a cup. This milestone can be both exciting and challenging. Understanding the right age and reasons for making this change can help ensure a smooth transition for your child and support their overall health and development. The Recommended Age The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents start the transition from bottle to cup at around 12 months of age. By 16 months, most children should be fully weaned off the bottle. This timeframe is not only ideal for encouraging developmental milestones but also for preventing potential health issues associated with prolonged bottle use. Why Make the Switch? Dental Health Prolonged bottle use, especially with milk or sugary drinks, can lead to tooth decay. According to a study published in the Journal of Pediatrics, toddlers who use a bottle beyond 12 months are at a higher risk for developing cavities. The sugar in milk and juice can pool around the teeth, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive. Oral Development Extended bottle use can affect the development of a child’s oral muscles and palate. The sucking motion required for bottle feeding is different from that used for drinking from a cup. A study from the American Dental Association highlights that long-term bottle use can contribute to issues such as misaligned teeth and improper jaw development. Encouraging Independence Transitioning to a cup is a significant step towards independence for your child. It encourages the development of fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Using a cup requires different muscle movements, which are crucial for speech development and overall motor skills. Nutritional Balance Children who rely heavily on bottle feeding might consume excessive amounts of milk, which can lead to iron deficiency anemia. A Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition study found that toddlers drinking more than 24 ounces of milk daily are at a higher risk of iron deficiency anemia. By transitioning to a cup, you can help ensure your child is receiving a balanced diet with a variety of nutrients. Bottle as a Sleep Prop Many parents use bottles as part of the bedtime routine, which can turn the bottle into a sleep prop. This dependency can interfere with the development of independent sleep skills. Eliminating the bedtime bottle encourages healthier sleep habits and self-soothing techniques. How to Transition Start Gradually Begin by introducing a sippy cup with water during meals. Allow your child to explore and play with the cup to become familiar with it. Reduce Bottle Use Gradually decrease the number of bottles offered, starting with daytime bottles. Replace them with cups during meals and snacks. Offer Positive Reinforcement Praise and encourage your child when they use the cup. Positive reinforcement can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable. Consistency is Key Be consistent with the transition. If you decide to eliminate the bedtime bottle, stick to it. Offer comfort in other ways, such as through bedtime stories or cuddles. Lead by Example Children often mimic their parents. Drink from a cup in front of your child to show them it’s the normal way to consume beverages. References
AuthorErin Neri - Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant and Owner of To The Moon and Back Sleep Consulting since 2016. |
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© COPYRIGHT 2016-2025 TO THE MOON AND BACK SLEEP CONSULTING. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. WAKING GIRL WEB DESIGN
ADA COMPLIANCE PRIVACY POLICY