Why Your 18-Month-Old Is Waking Up Screaming—and How to Help
If your 18-month-old is suddenly screaming in the middle of the night, you’re not alone. This phase, while exhausting, is common in toddlerhood. Let’s explore why it happens and what you can do to restore peace (and sleep!) for your family.
Understanding Nighttime Distress in Toddlers
At 18 months, children undergo significant developmental leaps—physically, emotionally, and cognitively. These changes often disrupt sleep. Nighttime screaming can stem from multiple factors:
1. Night Terrors vs. Nightmares
– Night terrors occur during non-REM sleep, usually within 2–3 hours of bedtime. Your child may scream, thrash, or seem panicked but won’t fully wake or remember the episode.
– Nightmares happen during REM sleep, closer to morning. Toddlers often wake fully, seek comfort, and recall scary dreams.
2. Separation Anxiety
Around this age, separation anxiety peaks. Your toddler now understands object permanence—they know you exist even when out of sight—but lack the coping skills to self-soothe. Waking alone in a dark room can trigger panic.
3. Sleep Regression
Developmental milestones like walking, talking, or mastering new skills can temporarily disrupt sleep patterns. Their busy brains struggle to “shut off” at night.
4. Physical Discomfort
Teething (molars often emerge around 18 months), illness, hunger, or even an uncomfortable sleep environment (too hot/cold, scratchy pajamas) can lead to nighttime distress.
Practical Strategies for Calmer Nights
1. Create a Soothing Bedtime Routine
Consistency is key. A predictable 30–45 minute routine helps signal that sleep is coming:
– Warm bath
– Gentle massage or cuddles
– Quiet storytime (avoid stimulating books)
– Soft lullabies or white noise
Avoid screens at least an hour before bed—blue light suppresses melatonin production.
2. Address Night Terrors Gently
During an episode:
– Stay calm—your anxiety can escalate theirs
– Don’t try to wake them; it may prolong the terror
– Ensure they’re safe (block bed edges)
– Speak softly: “You’re safe. Mommy/Daddy is here.”
Night terrors often resolve on their own by age 5. Track timing—if they occur predictably, gently wake your child 15 minutes before the usual episode to reset their sleep cycle.
3. Build Confidence Against Separation Anxiety
– Practice short daytime separations (“I’ll be back after your snack!”).
– Use a comfort object: Introduce a special blanket or stuffed animal during bedtime routines.
– Play peek-a-boo or hide-and-seek to reinforce that separations are temporary.
When responding to nighttime cries:
– Wait 1–2 minutes before entering—they might self-settle.
– Keep interactions boring: Use a nightlight to check on them, but avoid picking them up or lengthy conversations.
4. Rule Out Physical Triggers
– Check for fever, swollen gums, or diaper rash.
– Offer a pre-bedtime snack with protein and complex carbs (e.g., whole-grain crackers with cheese).
– Ensure the room is comfortably cool (68–72°F) and dark. Blackout curtains and a humidifier can help.
5. Adjust Nap Schedules
Overtiredness and undertiredness both disrupt sleep. At 18 months:
– Most need 11–14 hours of total sleep daily
– Ideal nap: 1.5–3 hours, ending by 3 PM
– If refusing naps, try “quiet time” with books instead
When to Seek Help
While most nighttime screaming is temporary, consult a pediatrician if you notice:
– Snoring or gasping for breath (possible sleep apnea)
– Frequent night terrors (more than 1–2 weekly)
– Daytime sleepiness or behavioral changes
– Signs of illness (rashes, persistent fever)
The Bigger Picture: Patience Pays Off
Remember, this phase won’t last forever. Your toddler isn’t being difficult—they’re learning to navigate big emotions in a confusing world. By staying consistent and calm, you’re teaching them that nighttime is safe, even when you’re not in the room.
One exhausted parent to another: Keep a stash of your favorite coffee or tea handy, and remind yourself that you’re doing an amazing job. With time and these strategies, everyone in the house will rediscover the joy of uninterrupted sleep.
Please indicate: Thinking In Educating » Why Your 18-Month-Old Is Waking Up Screaming—and How to Help