Just when you think you’ve finally figured out your baby’s sleep routine, it happens–waking up in the middle of the night, shorter naps, and early morning wake-ups. Welcome to the world of sleep regressions! They can throw a wrench into even the best-laid sleep plans, leaving parents feeling frustrated and exhausted. The good news is that sleep regressions are a normal part of infant and toddler development. Knowing what sleep regressions are, why they happen, and how you can navigate through them is helpful.
What is a sleep regression?
The term “sleep regression” refers to a temporary disruption in a baby or toddler’s sleep patterns. A child who was once sleeping well may suddenly start waking more frequently during the night or have trouble falling asleep.
Sleep regressions typically occur during key developmental stages in the first few years of life. However, “regression” can sound scary, making parents unnecessarily dread these periods. Thinking of these changes as natural progressions in your child’s growth is more helpful.
Rather than fearing sleep regressions, it’s important to accept that changes in sleep patterns are a normal part of development. Saying to yourself, “I can teach my baby solid sleep skills, but change is inevitable, and I can handle it,” can help you manage expectations during these challenging times.
Why do sleep regressions happen?
Sleep regressions typically occur during key developmental milestones or changes in your baby’s life. As babies learn new skills like rolling, sitting, or crawling, their brains are busy processing these developments, which can make sleep less of a priority. During these times, your baby may wake more frequently or struggle to settle down as they work on mastering these exciting milestones.
Other common causes of sleep regressions include changes in sleep needs, such as dropping a nap, or heightened separation anxiety, which can make bedtime more difficult. Additionally, growth spurts, travel, and disruptions in routine, like starting daycare, can all affect sleep patterns. Temporary disruptions due to illness or teething may also mimic a sleep regression, so it’s important to rule these out before assuming it’s a developmental phase.
How to navigate sleep regressions
While it can be challenging, there are ways to support your child through this period and help them get back on track. For more tips on navigating sleep regressions, watch this PedsDocTalk YouTube video. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Manage expectations and stay calm
The first step is to recognize that sleep regressions are normal and temporary. Try to manage your own mindset and stay calm when your baby’s sleep patterns change. Remember, with consistency, your child’s sleep will likely return to normal.
Rule out illness or teething
If your baby is showing signs of discomfort, such as a fever or swollen gums, make sure their sleep disruption isn’t due to illness or teething. For more tips to help with teething, check out this PedsDocTalk teething remedies downloadable guide.
Assess sleep needs
A sleep regression could mean it’s time to adjust your baby’s nap or bedtime schedule. Pay attention to wake windows–the period of time your baby is awake between sleeps. Adjusting the timing of naps or bedtime may help smooth out the disrupted sleep.
Practice milestones during the day
Since many regressions are linked to developmental milestones, give your child plenty of opportunities to practice new skills like rolling, crawling, or walking during the day. This can help reduce the urge to practice these activities during sleep time.
Maintain a consistent routine
Routines are comforting for babies and toddlers. Even during a sleep regression, keep bedtime routines consistent. Continue to offer naps and ensure that bedtime is at an appropriate time (typically between 7 and 8:30 pm for babies over 4 months). A predictable routine helps signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down for sleep.
What not to do during a sleep regression
While it’s tempting to try new strategies in the middle of a sleep regression, be cautious about introducing habits you don’t want to keep long-term. Rocking, cuddling, and loving your baby will always be okay– your baby needs comfort, especially during periods of disruption. However, if your long-term goal is for your baby to sleep in their independent sleep space, try to maintain that routine during a sleep regression.
Avoid introducing new sleep aids. If your child didn’t need a pacifier, rocking, or being brought into your bed before the sleep regression, try to avoid adding these into the mix. Once the regression ends, these new habits might be harder to break.
Avoid pushing bedtime too late. Some parents think that pushing bedtime later will help their child sleep longer, but this can backfire. Stick to an age-appropriate bedtime and avoid letting your child become overtired.
Looking for more help navigating sleep regressions?
This PedsDocTalk YouTube video has more tips on navigating sleep regressions and when to seek help.
The PedsDocTalk New Mom’s Survival Guide has SO much more information about sleep and navigating the entire first year! With the NMSG, you get access to the Mom Squad community to ask other moms and Dr. Mona all your questions!
Watch the PedsDocTalk YouTube Video HERE!
