What is a Sleep Regression?
A sleep regression is like a surprise party for your baby’s sleep schedule! Suddenly, a baby who used to sleep well starts having trouble sleeping. Don’t worry – this is totally normal and happens to most babies.
When Sleep Regressions Happen
Common Sleep Regression Times
- 4 months
- 6 months
- 8-10 months
- 12 months
Why Do Sleep Regressions Happen?
Babies go through BIG changes:
- Learning to crawl
- Trying to sit up
- Discovering new sounds
- Growing teeth
- Exploring the world
- Developing brain skills
- Separating from parents
Signs of a Sleep Regression
Your Baby Might:
- Wake up more at night
- Have trouble falling asleep
- Be extra cranky
- Take shorter naps
- Want more cuddles
- Seem more upset than usual
The 6-12 Month Sleep Regression Rollercoaster
6-8 Months: On the Move!
- Babies start crawling
- Learning to sit up
- Excited about new skills
- Want to practice ALL THE TIME
- Even during sleep time!
8-10 Months: Separation Anxiety
- Realize parents can leave
- Get scared when parents are not around
- Want to be close all the time
- Wake up more at night
- Need extra comfort
12 Months: Big Changes
- Learning to walk
- Trying to talk
- Getting more teeth
- Developing strong feelings
- Want more independence
How to Handle Sleep Regressions
Stay Calm
- Remember, this is temporary
- Sleep will get better
- Your baby is learning and growing
Keep Routine Strong
- Stick to bedtime schedule
- Do same things every night
- Keep calm and quiet
- Use soft voices
- Dim lights
- Give extra cuddles
Comfort Techniques
- Gentle back rubs
- Soft singing
- White noise machine
- Extra security blanket
- Comfort object
What NOT to Do
❌ DON’T:
- Change sleep training completely
- Get frustrated
- Make big schedule changes
- Create new bad sleep habits
- Stop all your good sleep routines
✅ DO:
- Be patient
- Offer extra comfort
- Stay consistent
- Take care of yourself
- Ask for help if needed
Helping Your Baby (and You!) Get Better Sleep
Daytime Tips
- Lots of play and activity
- Tummy time
- Regular nap schedule
- Avoid over-tiredness
- Calm environment
Nighttime Tips
- Consistent bedtime
- Comfortable sleeping area
- Cool room temperature
- Soft pajamas
- Quiet surroundings
When to Ask for Help
Talk to your doctor if:
- Sleep problems last more than 2-3 weeks
- Baby seems very upset
- Not eating well
- Looks sick
- You feel overwhelmed
Remember
- Sleep regressions are normal
- They don’t last forever
- Your baby is learning and growing
- You’re doing a great job!
References
- American Academy of Pediatrics. (2022). Sleep Challenges in Infants. HealthyChildren.org.
- National Sleep Foundation. (2021). Infant Sleep Regressions. sleepfoundation.org.
- Zero to Three. (2022). Developmental Changes and Sleep. zerotothree.org.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Infant Sleep Patterns. cdc.gov.
- Mayo Clinic. (2022). Infant Sleep Disruptions. mayoclinic.org.
- American Academy of Sleep Medicine. (2021). Pediatric Sleep Challenges. aasm.org.
