Sleep regressions. When? Why? How?

GeneralBabyToddler
Written By Uma K
Baby Sleep regressions blog.jpg

What is a sleep regression?

Sleep regression is a period of time, usually about 2-4 weeks, when a baby who’s sleeping well, suddenly has trouble settling down for sleep or wakes up fussing in the middle of the night, skipping naps and having early morning wakings. 

When does it happen?

  • 4 months

  • 6 & 9 months

  • 12 months

  • 18 months

  • 2 years

Common signs of sleep regression:

  • Waking up often during the night

  • Having hard time going back to sleep

  • Manifesting extreme crankiness

  • Refusing to take naps

  • Demonstrating an increased hunger

 Why do they happen?

These are the periods of rapid growth and brain development. That’s why it is always good to remember, that all sleep regressions are due to the developmental progressions. Your child is learning new things and developing new skills every day. These sleep regressions can be associated with a developmental leap, teething, separation anxiety, potty training, growing self-awareness and independence, family life changes (e.g. new sibling) and fears (of the dark or of something scary they imagine).

How to manage?

The main challenge for you during this stage is to stick to the plan (whether it’s the sleep training or already established routine and / or sleep schedule).

  • Continue good and consistent sleep routine

  • Pay close attention to the sleepy cues

  • Give your little one lots of opportunities to practice developing (emerging) skills during the day (e.g. rolling over, crawling, sitting, pulling up to a standing position, walking etc.)

  • Offer a lot of play time during the day: such as the peekaboo (it reinforces the understanding of object permanence and the understanding that when you leave you always come back)

  • Offer lots of love, kisses and cuddles during the day

  • Make sure the room is as dark as it possibly can be

  • If possible take turns at night with your partner to comfort the baby

 

*Please note that every child is unique and develops on its own pace. When does sleep regression start and how long it lasts will depend on the factors causing it, sleep habits and the environment, as well as their overall development.

Uma K