Methods at 12 Months
All structured methods work at 12 months, but you may notice that your baby is more opinionated and resistant than a younger infant. Ferber remains the most popular choice. CIO works well for determined babies. The Chair method can be adapted but requires iron willpower since your baby will actively try to engage you.
Toddler-Specific Adaptations
- Walking babies may stand and cruise the crib constantly. Ensure the mattress is at the lowest setting.
- Your baby may throw their lovey or pacifier out of the crib as a tactic to get you back. Return it once during a check-in, then don't replace it again.
- Some 12-month-olds start testing boundaries by screaming louder or longer. This is normal toddler limit-testing, not a sign that the method is wrong.
- Keep bedtime routine short and predictable (15-20 minutes). Long routines invite stalling.
The 12-Month Regression
Around 12 months, walking (or learning to walk) can cause a temporary sleep disruption. Your baby's brain is so excited about this new skill that they want to practice it at 2 AM. This is temporary. Stay consistent with your method and it passes in 1-2 weeks.
At 12 months, most pediatricians agree that night feeds are no longer nutritionally necessary. If your baby is still feeding at night, it's likely a sleep association rather than hunger. Address it as part of sleep training.
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