Why Is a 21 Month Old Not Sleeping? Common Causes and Solutions

Having trouble with your 21-month-old not sleeping? You’re not alone. Many parents face this challenge, especially during phases known as sleep regressions. The 21-month sleep regression is a common reason why your toddler might suddenly start experiencing sleep disturbances. This can manifest as trouble falling asleep, frequent night awakenings, or even resisting naps 21-month sleep regression. Understanding this can be the first step in helping your little one get back on track.

Around this age, toddlers hit several developmental milestones. They are more aware of their surroundings, more active, and might even be experiencing separation anxiety. These factors can greatly impact their sleep patterns. A consistent sleep routine is crucial at this stage; aim for 12-14 hours of total sleep in a 24-hour period, with 2-3 hours dedicated to nap time 21-month-old sleep schedule.

Creating a sleep-friendly environment can also help. Ensure that their sleep space is calm and conducive to sleep by using blackout blinds and keeping the room dimly lit creating conducive sleep space. This way, your toddler will be less likely to wake up due to distractions and noises. By addressing these areas, you can help your 21-month-old navigate through this challenging phase and improve their sleep patterns.

Understanding Your Toddler’s Sleep Needs

At 21 months old, your child’s sleep plays a critical role in their overall development. Consistent and restful sleep patterns are essential for their growth, cognitive development, and daily energy levels.

Importance of Sleep for Development

Adequate sleep is vital for your toddler’s cognitive and motor skills. During sleep, your child’s brain processes new information, solidifying learning and enhancing memory. This is crucial for their language skills and problem-solving abilities.

Sleep also aids in physical growth. Growth hormones are released during sleep, supporting the development of muscles and tissues. For a 21-month-old, this phase of rapid growth and motor skill advancement requires ample rest.

A well-rested child is more alert and able to interact with their environment. They can better manage emotions and handle social interactions. Poor sleep can lead to crankiness, hyperactivity, and issues with attention.

Typical Sleep Patterns at 21 Months

Your 21-month-old might need about 11-14 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. This usually includes one nap during the day, lasting 1-3 hours. Nighttime sleep would then range from 10-12 hours.

Their circadian rhythm, or internal body clock, helps regulate sleepiness. Encourage a consistent bedtime routine to align with this rhythm, making it easier for your child to fall asleep.

Try to establish a sleep schedule that includes consistent wake times and bedtimes. This predictability helps your child feel secure and understand what to expect daily.

Avoid activities that are overly stimulating before bed. Instead, opt for calming routines like reading a book or a warm bath, which can signal to your toddler that it’s time to sleep.

Common Sleep Challenges and Their Causes

Toddlers around 21 months old can face various sleep challenges. These can include sleep regressions, nighttime awakenings due to nightmares, or discomfort from teething and illness.

Navigating Sleep Regressions

At 21 months, sleep regressions are common. Your toddler might suddenly resist naps, wake frequently at night, or have trouble falling asleep. This often occurs because of developmental milestones like increased mobility or learning new words, which can disrupt their sleep pattern. Managing this may require a bit of patience and consistency. Maintain a stable bedtime routine, offer comfort, and ensure your child feels secure and relaxed before bed.

Dealing With Nighttime Awakenings and Nightmares

Nighttime awakenings can be troubling for both you and your toddler. These awakenings often happen due to nightmares or night terrors, which become more frequent as their imagination grows. Separation anxiety can also contribute to nighttime disturbances. To help, provide a calming sleep environment with dim lighting and keep bedtime routines predictable. Be mindful of screen time before bed as it can overstimulate their developing minds, leading to restless sleep.

Impact of Teething and Illness

Teething and illness are other significant reasons for disrupted sleep. When your toddler is teething, they may experience pain and discomfort, making it hard for them to stay asleep. Likewise, common illnesses such as colds or ear infections can cause discomfort, leading to frequent awakenings. To ease their pain, you might use teething toys during the day and ensure they’re comfortable at night. It’s also important to consult your pediatrician if sleep disruptions persist due to illness.

Creating a Soothing Bedtime Routine

Creating a soothing bedtime routine for your 21-month-old can help them feel secure and ready for sleep. You can establish consistent sleep habits and adapt the routine as your child grows and changes.

Establishing Consistent Sleep Habits

Consistency is key to a successful bedtime routine. Try to follow the same steps every night. A simple routine might include a bath, putting on pajamas, reading a book, and having a goodnight kiss.

Your child will begin to recognize these activities as signals that it’s time to sleep. It’s helpful to set a bedtime between 7:00-8:00 pm, which is recommended for this age.

A consistent sleep routine can also reduce bedtime battles and help your child sleep through the night. Make sure to create a calming environment, such as dimming the lights and playing gentle music. If your child wakes up in the night, they will likely find it easier to go back to sleep if they are used to a predictable bedtime.

Adapting Routine to Developmental Changes

As your child grows, their sleep needs and behaviors will change. Your bedtime routine should adapt to these developmental leaps. For instance, around this age, many toddlers experience sleep regressions.

During these periods, they may resist bedtime or wake up more frequently at night. While it can be challenging, maintaining the routine as much as possible gives them reassurance and stability.

If your child starts having nightmares or separation anxiety, providing extra comfort during the routine can help. This might mean more cuddles or a longer story. Some toddlers may benefit from a nightlight or a favorite stuffed animal to feel more secure in their sleep environment.

Remember, flexibility is important. Adjust the routine when necessary to meet your child’s changing needs while keeping the core elements consistent. This balance will help your toddler develop good sleep habits that can last a lifetime.

When to Seek Professional Advice

If your 21-month-old isn’t sleeping well, you might wonder when to bring in a professional like a pediatrician. Here are some signs to look out for:

Persistent Sleep Issues

• If your child hasn’t shown improvement in 2-6 weeks during a sleep regression, it might be time to seek help.
• Continuous trouble falling or staying asleep can signal a deeper issue.

Behavioral Changes

• If your child is extremely cranky, overly tired during the day, or displaying unusual behaviors, it’s wise to consult a pediatrician.
• Drastic mood swings may be linked to poor sleep quality.

Health Concerns

• Constant waking up due to snoring or breathing difficulties warrants immediate attention.
• Any sleep problems that coincide with illnesses or other health issues.

Awake Time Patterns

• Excessive awake time during the night can disrupt your child’s overall sleep schedule.
• Inconsistent sleep patterns that persist might need intervention.

Advice on Sleep Training

• If you’ve tried sleep training methods and seen no progress, professional guidance can provide alternative strategies.
• Resources like this schedule for 21-month-old sleep and naps can be beneficial.

Additional Tips

• Create a bedtime routine that your child can follow.
• Make their sleep space comfortable, as suggested here.

By recognizing these signs, you can determine when to seek professional advice to ensure your child gets the best possible sleep.