It was 2 AM when I first heard those heart-wrenching cries coming from my toddler’s room.
As I rushed to comfort my 15-month-old for what felt like the hundredth time that week, I couldn’t help but wonder: Is this normal? Was I doing something wrong?
Like you, I’ve spent countless nights googling “toddler crying at night” while trying to soothe my little one back to sleep.
Whether your once-perfect sleeper is suddenly waking up in tears, or you’re wondering if these night-time wake-ups will ever end, you’re not alone.
Today, I want to share what I’ve learned about toddler sleep – both as a mom who’s been there and through careful research.
Let’s explore why our 15-month-olds might wake up crying, what’s normal, and most importantly, what we can do to help them (and ourselves) get better sleep.
What Is 15-Month-Old Sleep Regression?
A 15-month sleep regression is a challenging developmental phase where toddlers experience significant disruptions to their previously established sleep patterns.
This regression is typically triggered by rapid cognitive and physical development, emerging independence, and increased mobility.
During this period, children may struggle with falling asleep, staying asleep, and maintaining their previous sleep routines.
While this phase is temporary, understanding the signs can help you manage it effectively.
- Frequent night wakings despite previously sleeping well.
- Increased crying and fussiness when waking up.
- Shorter naps or resisting nap time.
- Waking up earlier than usual and struggling to fall back asleep.
- Clinginess and difficulty sleeping alone.
- Changes in appetite, sometimes waking up hungry.
- Restless sleep with tossing and turning.
- Increased energy and resistance before bedtime.
- Taking longer to fall asleep at night.
Why a 15-Month-Old Might Wake Up Crying?
At 15 months, babies undergo significant developmental changes, which can lead to occasional sleep disruptions.
Waking up crying is common at this age and can be caused by various factors. Understanding these underlying causes can help you support your baby during their nighttime wake-ups.
1. Nighttime Separation
Fears At 15 months, babies become more aware of their surroundings and their connection to you. When they wake up alone in their crib, it can trigger anxiety about being separated from their parents.
This awareness often peaks during the night, leading to crying episodes even if they were perfectly fine at bedtime.
While this phase is challenging, it’s actually a healthy sign of emotional development and secure attachment.
2. Molar Teething Pain
Many 15-month-olds are getting their first molars, which can be particularly uncomfortable.
Unlike the front teeth, molars are bigger and take longer to push through the gums. The pain often intensifies at night when there are fewer distractions, causing your toddler to wake up crying.
This discomfort can last for several days or even weeks as the teeth slowly emerge.
3. Environmental Changes or Life Transitions
Big or small changes in your toddler’s environment can trigger nighttime crying.
Moving to a new home, a parent returning to work, a new sibling, or even rearranging their room can impact sleep.
Toddlers thrive on routine and familiarity, so any disruption to their normal environment can cause anxiety that shows up as nighttime crying.
Even positive changes like starting daycare or visiting grandparents can temporarily affect sleep patterns.
4. Sleep Schedule Changes
Around 15 months, many toddlers begin transitioning from two naps to one. This big change in their daily sleep pattern can lead to overtiredness at night.
When a baby is overtired, their body produces stress hormones that make it harder to stay asleep, causing them to wake up crying.
They might also fight bedtime more or wake up extra early while adjusting to the new schedule.
Practical Tips to Soothe Crying and Enhance Your Baby’s Sleep
Managing your baby’s crying and improving their sleep requires patience, consistency, and a calming approach. Here are effective ways to support your baby through this phase:
1. Master the 5 S’s: The Ultimate Soothing Technique
The 5 S’s method is a game-changer for calming babies.
Start with swaddling to recreate the secure feeling of the womb, then use side/stomach position while holding the baby.
Add gentle shushing sounds to mimic uterine noise, offer gentle swinging or rocking motions, and provide a sucking mechanism like a pacifier.
This combination triggers the baby’s natural calming reflex, helping to instantly soothe even the most distressed infants.
2. Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine
Create a predictable, calming sequence that signals it’s time to sleep.
Begin with a warm bath to relax your baby, followed by a gentle massage with soothing baby oil.
Dress your little one in comfortable pajamas, dim the lights, and engage in quiet activities like reading a short story or singing a soft lullaby.
3. Understand and Respond to Different Cry Types
Learn to distinguish between hunger, discomfort, tiredness, and overstimulation cries.
Hunger cries are typically rhythmic and intensify quickly, while tired cries might sound whiny and fragmented.
Discomfort cries can be more high-pitched.
By becoming attuned to these subtle differences, you can address your baby’s specific needs more effectively, reducing overall crying and promoting better sleep.
4. Create an Optimal Sleep Environment
Design a sleep space that promotes relaxation and minimizes disruptions.
Maintain a comfortable room temperature between 68-72°F (20-22°C), use blackout curtains to ensure darkness, and consider white noise machines to block out sudden sounds.
Ensure the crib is free from loose bedding, pillows, or toys, following safe sleep guidelines.
A consistent, calm environment helps signal to your baby that it’s time to rest.
5. Practice Calm-Down Techniques for Yourself
Recognize that a calm parent leads to a calmer baby.
When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take deep breaths, practice mini-meditation, or use quick stress-relief techniques.
If possible, take short breaks by asking your partner or a family member to help.
Your emotional state directly impacts your baby’s emotional regulation, so managing your own stress is crucial in soothing your little one.
6. Recognize and Manage Overstimulation
Babies can quickly become overwhelmed by too much sensory input. Watch for signs of overstimulation like looking away, becoming fussy, or crying.
When these signs appear, move to a quieter, darker environment and use gentle, slow movements.
Reduce noise, dim lights, and provide a calm, comforting touch.
Learning to recognize and respond to these cues can prevent extended crying episodes and promote better sleep.
When to Seek Help?
As a parent, it’s important to trust your instincts when caring for your baby, especially when they experience sleep disruptions or excessive crying.
If you’re noticing consistent patterns or concerns, here are a few signs that indicate it may be time to seek help from a healthcare professional
- Prolonged Crying: If your baby is crying excessively for long periods without any sign of improvement or if they seem inconsolable, it could indicate a medical issue that needs to be addressed.
- Changes in Behavior: If your baby’s usual temperament changes dramatically, such as lethargy, persistent fussiness, or trouble feeding, consult a pediatrician.
- Sleep Regression Beyond Expected Age: If your baby’s sleep issues, such as frequent night waking or crying, persist beyond the normal developmental sleep regressions, it may be time for a professional evaluation.
Wrapping Up!
As a mom who’s been through the 15-month sleep challenges, I want you to remember one thing: this phase won’t last forever.
Those middle-of-the-night wake-ups that feel endless right now will gradually become less frequent as your toddler grows and develops.
If your little one is waking up crying, they need your comfort and patience – even if it’s just for a few minutes.
Whether it’s separation anxiety, teething pain, or a growth spurt causing the wake-ups, your consistent response helps them feel secure.
If you’re worried about your toddler’s sleep patterns, it’s always okay to check with your pediatrician, but know that in most cases, these nighttime wake-ups are just another step in your child’s development.
You’ve got this, tired parent. Sweet dreams to you and your little one!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Babies Sleep Regress at 15 Months?
Yes, Many Babies Experience Sleep Regression Around 15 Months Due to Developmental Leaps, Teething, and Growing Independence. This Phase Typically Lasts 2-6 Weeks.
Can Night Terrors Start at 15 Months?
Yes, Night Terrors Can Start at 15 Months, Though They’re More Common in Older Toddlers (2-3 Years). They Happen During Deep Sleep and Usually Last 10-30 Minutes. Most Children Outgrow Them Naturally.
Should a 15-Month-Old Be Sleeping Through the Night?
Most 15-month-olds can sleep 11-14 hours per night. While some sleep through the night, occasional wake-ups are normal. Each child’s sleep needs vary based on daytime activity and naps.
