07/10/2026
Focus on connection time. Quality over quantity especially if returning to work/starting childcare. Moments without distractions/multitasking, physical contact (cuddles / tickles / big body play / skin to skin), eye contact, and loving affirmations.
Free floor time, both inside and out, to practice all their new emerging skills.
Soothe teething pain where needed.
While not unheard of to drop down to 1 nap at this age (or earlier), it’s more common to still need it. Consider -
Capping the morning nap to protect the second nap before losing it.
Nudging either nap later so they are tired enough for it. This may nudge bedtime later but this will be temporary until the nap drops.
Focus on the nap happening rather than nap location.
If the nap transition feels tricky, remember it’s temporary.
If their needs heighten, while it can be hard, never feel guilt around offering the support. It might feel like a step backwards but I PROMISE it’s not. It’s a non linear journey.
If they previously were settling independently for sleep but now need support, it is okay to give this support.
If they are needing more support at night, it is more than okay to give this.
SLOW down during bedtime so the separation of sleep doesn’t feel like it’s hurtling towards them.
You might feel (or hear from others) ‘but they are ONE now...surely this should be done by now?’
But ONE is still oh so little.
Meeting your child where THEY are at will not prevent them from moving past a period of heightened need.
By giving them support when they need it, they will gain the confidence you are there when they need.
Meaning when those needs reduce again, they’ll find comfort in how they previously were settling (even if takes a little nudge from you).
No bad habits.
Just an understanding that sleep isn’t linear.
And that our little ones are little humans whose needs both go up...and back down again.
It can be hard - treat yourself with kindness (and some early nights) -it will pass.
FOLLOW for daily sleep tips without sleep training.
Lucy ###
