Q: My 1 year old is having trouble sleeping at night. He moves a lot, cries alot and even does this during his nap time. Any advice?

Answered by: Dr Tay Chee Pin, Paediatrics – General, Pantai Hospital Klang (PHK)

Your infant might experience a sleep regression stage at 12 months old.

Sleep regression is a transient, short-lived (usually settles in a few weeks’ time) stage when your previously well rested infant suddenly struggles to fall asleep or could not stay asleep throughout the night. Some infants will have more prolonged waking periods in the middle of the night too.

Sleep regression is likely linked to the few factors:

• Achieving new skills e.g., walking and talking which makes them super excited and wanting more at night.
• Cognitive development and maturity make a 1-year-old infant might try to resist the daily routine that comforts him by throwing a tantrum at night.
• Teething pain and discomfort.
• Separation anxiety that starts to build up along the emotional and social development.
• Nightmare.
• Changes in the daytime sleep pattern makes them overtired.

Here are some tips for you:

• Be patient with your tot. Monitor them closely when they awake to make sure nothing harmful happens and see whether they fall asleep back.
• Keep them active during the day.
• Have a consistent schedule for daytime nap and night sleep.
• Ideal sleep environment with no distracting voices, lighting, or other stimulants.
• Add a small night light for those who are scared of the dark.
• Allow one favourite item on bed e.g., toy, towel which will make them feel more secure (not suitable for those below 6 months old).
• Consistent bedtime routine- warm shower, wearing pyjamas, storytelling/ lullaby, good night kiss and hugs.
• Sooth the teething pain by wet cold towel dab or teether.
• Avoid exciting games and electronic gadgets before bedtime.
• In view of sleep regression is a transient stage that settles in a few weeks. Parent should not worry about the sudden changes in their infant’s sleep pattern. However, if the sleep disturbance affects their growth and development, causing major changes in their behaviour, or there is abnormal snoring/ breathing pattern, seek immediate medical attention.