12-Month Sleep Regression
Walking, talking, and nap transitions combine at the one-year mark.
Duration
2-6 weeks
Longer if nap transition is mishandled
Timing
11-14 months old
Often coincides with first birthday milestones
Cause
Multiple Milestones
Walking, talking, nap transitions, independence
What's Happening at 12 Months?
The 12-month regression is action-packed—multiple major milestones converge around the first birthday.
Physical milestones: Most babies take their first steps around 12 months. Walking is thrilling and exhausting. Baby wants to practice constantly and may "forget" how tired they are.
Language explosion: First words emerge. Baby is working hard to communicate and may wake up "practicing" words at night.
Nap transition: Many babies drop from 2 naps to 1 nap around 12-15 months. This transition is tricky and can temporarily worsen night sleep.
Signs of the 12-Month Regression
Resisting Bedtime
Suddenly fights bedtime intensely. Doesn't want to "miss out" on life. FOMO (fear of missing out) is real for 12-month-olds!
Nap Refusal
Refuses one or both naps, but then is overtired and cranky. May be ready for 2→1 nap transition or just going through temporary phase.
Night Wakings Resume
Baby who slept through the night starts waking again, often just one long waking (45-90 minutes) rather than multiple quick wakings.
Babbling/Talking at Night
You hear baby practicing words in crib at 2am. "Mama! Dada! Ball!" Language practice continues even during sleep.
Early Morning Waking
Waking at 5-5:30am ready to start the day. Overtiredness from nap issues often causes early wake-ups.
Increased Independence & Tantrums
Wants to do everything themselves. Bedtime becomes a power struggle. First hints of toddlerhood emerging.
🛌 Is It Time for One Nap?
The 2→1 nap transition typically happens between 12-18 months. Signs baby is ready:
- Refuses morning nap consistently for 1-2 weeks
- Takes morning nap but then refuses afternoon nap
- Consistently sleeping 11-12 hours at night (not overtired)
- Can handle 5-6 hours awake before needing sleep
Not ready if: Baby is 12-14 months, sleeping poorly at night, or can't stay awake past 11am. Most babies aren't truly ready until 14-15 months.
How to Survive the 12-Month Regression
Determine if Nap Transition is Needed
If baby consistently refuses one nap for 2+ weeks, try transitioning to one midday nap (12-12:30pm). But if it's just a few bad nap days, hold off—most babies aren't ready before 14 months.
Tire Out Physical Energy
Give lots of opportunities for walking, climbing, and active play during the day. Tired bodies sleep better. Outdoor time is especially helpful.
Maintain Firm Bedtime Boundaries
Toddlers test limits—bedtime is no exception. Be kind but firm. Complete routine, say goodnight, leave room. Don't negotiate or return multiple times.
Adjust Bedtime if Needed
If dropping to one nap, move bedtime earlier temporarily (6-6:30pm) until baby adjusts. Overtired babies fight sleep harder.
Don't Eliminate Naps Too Soon
A few days of nap refusal doesn't mean baby is done with naps! Babies need 2 naps until at least 12 months, usually until 14-15 months. Hold firm.
Provide Comfort Without Creating Habits
It's okay to offer reassurance during this transition, but avoid creating new sleep crutches (rocking to sleep, staying in room until asleep).
What NOT to Do During the 12-Month Regression
- Don't drop to one nap too early: Most babies aren't ready before 14 months. Dropping naps prematurely creates overtiredness.
- Don't start cow's milk before bedtime expecting it to help sleep: Milk transition should happen gradually during meals, not tied to sleep.
- Don't assume every night waking is hunger: At 12 months, most babies don't need night feeds. This is likely habit or seeking comfort.
- Don't engage during middle-of-night wakings: Keep interactions boring—no lights, no talking, no play. Show baby nighttime is for sleeping.
When to Call Your Pediatrician
Most 12-month sleep issues are developmental, but consult your doctor if:
- Baby shows signs of illness or sudden behavior changes
- Sleep problems persist beyond 8 weeks
- Baby stops walking or loses other skills (developmental regression)
- You notice snoring, breath-holding, or gasping during sleep
- Extreme separation anxiety interferes with all daily activities
Navigating the 2-to-1 nap transition? SleepCycleHub Smart sleep timing calculator to optimise rest for the whole family.