Just when you think you’ve finally got your baby’s sleep routine figured out, they suddenly start waking up more often, refusing naps, or having a hard time settling at bedtime. Sound familiar? You may be dealing with a sleep regression.
Sleep regressions are a totally normal (but frustrating) part of your baby’s development. The good news? They don’t last forever! In this blog, we’ll talk about what sleep regressions are, why they happen, and—most importantly—how to manage them.
What is a Sleep Regression?
A sleep regression is a temporary disruption in your baby’s sleep pattern, usually caused by developmental milestones or changes in their sleep needs. During a regression, your baby might wake up more frequently at night, take shorter naps, or fight sleep altogether—even if they were sleeping well before.
Sleep regressions tend to happen around predictable ages, often at 4 months, 8-10 months, and 12 months, but they can pop up at other times too. They typically last anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks (though it can feel longer when you’re in the thick of it!).
Why Do Sleep Regressions Happen?
Sleep regressions are linked to your baby’s growth and development. As your baby’s brain matures and they hit new milestones, like learning to roll, crawl, or babble, their sleep patterns can temporarily be disrupted. Some common reasons for sleep regressions include:
- Developmental Milestones: Your baby is learning new skills, and their brain is busy processing them—even during sleep!
- Separation Anxiety: Around 8-10 months, babies start to develop stronger attachments to their caregivers, which can lead to sleep disruptions as they become more aware of your absence.
- Changes in Sleep Needs: As your baby grows, their sleep needs change. For example, they might need fewer naps or longer wake windows between sleep.
How To Manage Sleep Regressions
While sleep regressions can feel like a huge setback, there are ways to help your baby (and you) navigate through them with as little disruption as possible. Here are a few tips to manage sleep regressions:
1. Stick to Your Routine
Even when sleep is off-track, consistency is key. Sticking to your baby’s usual bedtime and nap routine can help them feel secure and signal that it’s still time to sleep. Whether it’s bath time, a favorite lullaby, or a cuddly story, keeping things predictable will help ease the transition.
2. Watch for Sleep Cues
During a regression, your baby’s sleep needs may change slightly, so be on the lookout for tired cues like yawning, rubbing their eyes, or getting fussy. Adjust their nap or bedtime if they seem overtired or under-tired to avoid adding extra sleep struggles.
3. Offer Comfort (But Don’t Create New Habits)
It’s natural to want to comfort your baby during a regression, and you should! But try to avoid creating new habits (like rocking to sleep) that might be hard to break once the regression is over. A little extra soothing is okay, just be mindful not to completely change how your baby falls asleep.
4. Stay Calm and Patient
Sleep regressions are tough, but they’re temporary. Take a deep breath, remind yourself that this is just a phase, and offer your baby as much patience and love as you can. Your calmness will help them feel more secure during this tricky time.
Sleep regressions can make it feel like you’re taking two steps back after making progress with your baby’s sleep, but they are a natural part of growing up. By staying consistent with your routine and offering gentle comfort, you can help your baby get through this phase.
If sleep regressions are throwing your entire routine out of whack and you need more tailored support, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to create a plan that helps your baby (and you) get the sleep you need—even during those challenging regressions!
