The 12-Month Sleep Regression
Updated
Quick answer: The 12-month sleep regression usually shows up as a toddler refusing one of their two naps around the first birthday. It’s often temporary — most children aren’t ready for 1 nap until 13–18 months. Keeping 2 naps, with an earlier bedtime on rough days, usually gets you through it in 1–3 weeks.
Why it happens
Around 12 months, many toddlers are learning to walk, understand much more, and can stay awake longer. One nap may be refused for a while, which can look like readiness for 1 nap even when it isn’t.
What helps
- Keep offering both naps, even if one is just quiet rest in the crib.
- Cap the morning nap at about an hour to protect the afternoon nap.
- Use an earlier bedtime on days a nap is skipped.
- Wait 1–2 weeks before deciding it’s really the 2 to 1 nap transition.
Common questions
Is it a regression or time for 1 nap?
If nap refusal lasts more than 2 weeks and your child copes well on 1 nap, they may be ready. Under 13 months, it’s more likely a phase.
How long does the 12-month sleep regression last?
Usually 1–3 weeks.