Understanding sleep regressions

What are sleep regressions?

Sleep regressions are temporary setbacks in typical sleep patterns at bedtime and during daytime naps. Sleep regressions appear around developmental milestones, typically at 4 months, 6 months, 8 months, 12 months, 18 months, 2 years, and 2.5 years. They are temporary and a normal part of development.

Sleep regression or growth spurt?

When your baby suddenly resists sleep, takes longer to settle down, refuses naps, or wakes up frequently, a sleep regression is likely to blame. On the other hand, if your baby becomes extra fussy, seems constantly hungry, and is crankier than usual, a growth spurt might be the cause.

What's the difference between a sleep regression and growth spurt?

Sleep regressions are often triggered by growth spurts but they can also result from other factors. The main difference is that during growth spurts, your baby will likely have an increased appetite and noticeable growth in weight and length.

Causes of sleep regressions

• Growth spurts
• Teething
• Reaching new developmental milestones like rolling over and sitting up
• Starting solids
• Changes in routine like starting daycare, moving, a new sibling

Signs of sleep regression

• Resisting sleep
• Appetite changes
• Irritability
• Frequent night wakings
• Sleeping more than usual
• Skipping naps
• Erratic sleep patterns

How long do sleep regressions last?

Sleep regressions typically last around two to four weeks. While it can be challenging, keeping a consistent sleep routine can shorten the duration. Identify the root cause before addressing it. For example, if your 8-month-old is experiencing separation anxiety (common at this stage), addressing it during the day can make less of an impact at night.

Sleep patterns: Sleep regression by age

4 month sleep regression

At 4 months, baby's sleep cycles start to mimic that of adults. This means they'll start waking between sleep cycles and may struggle to get back to sleep.

6 month sleep regression

The six month sleep regression is typically linked to a huge development, like rolling, sitting up, or preparing to crawl. At this age, babies are learning and exploring the world around them, and  may be more interested in trying out their new skills in the middle of the night. At six months babies start teething, which can cause discomfort and lead to frequent night wakings.

8 month sleep regression

Babies experience separation anxiety at 8 months, and are pretty unhappy and anxious when they’re not with their parents.

12 month sleep regression

Around their first birthday, babies develop new skills like walking and babbling. They are also transitioning to cow's milk or weaning off breast milk or infant formula. These big life changes can result in a sleep regression.

18 months sleep regression

At this age, babies start exploring independence and may test boundaries by resisting sleep. To help reduce this behavior at night, empower your toddler during the day by offering choices as part of their routine.

Strategies for sleep regression

• Address the underlying cause: If teething is the issue, provide plenty of opportunities for your baby to relieve their sore gums during the day. If it’s related to developmental growth, ensure they have time to practice new skills during the day.
• Consistency is key: Establish a bedtime routine. Babies recognize sleep cues, which calm them before putting them down in their crib. If your baby underwent formal sleep training, reinforce those sleep habits and bedtime routines.
• Get fresh air: Whenever possible, take your baby outside during the day, which can help regulate their circadian rhythm and help them fall asleep.
• Monitor daytime sleep: Pay attention to how much sleep your baby gets during the day (naps). Aim for wake windows of 2 to 3 hours. Keeping them up for longer or shorter can disrupt sleep cycles and make it harder for them to fall and stay asleep.
• Teach independent sleep skills: Help your baby develop independent sleep skills. Soothing them during your bedtime routine and placing them in their crib while they’re still awake can encourage them to fall asleep independently. Independent sleep skills, like self-soothing, also make it easier for babies to fall back to sleep between sleep cycles.

Soothing techniques for sleep

Soothing techniques are strategies that babies can use to help them fall asleep or return to sleep independently. One of the most effective ways to encourage self-soothing is by establishing a consistent and calm bedtime routine. A bedtime routine can include a warm bath, infant massage, breastfeeding or bottle feeding, reading a book, singing a song, and turning on a white noise machine. Allowing babies to suck their thumb or sucking on a pacifier can also help babies soothe and resettle for sleep.

Safe sleep

When it comes to newborn sleep, practicing safe sleep is key to preventing sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Although causes are unknown, there are ways to reduce the risk of SIDS, including:

• Always put your baby to sleep on their back to reduce the risk of suffocation.
• Cribs and bassinets should have firm, flat surfaces, without toys, stuffed animals, pillows, or bedding. Fitted sheets only, please.
• Never sleep in the same bed as your baby, including co-sleeping. While it may seem cute and cozy, there is a possibility of rolling onto your baby.  

Sleep schedule and bedtime routine for baby sleep

While you don't need to impose a strict sleep schedule, routines offer flexibility and consistency. Engaging in the same calm routine before bedtime can help them prepare for sleep.

Bedtime routines prepare the body for sleep, both physically and mentally. This includes a warm bath, a diaper change, and cuddling before bedtime. Create a peaceful environment with gentle sounds, soft lighting, and calm voices. You can use parts of your bedtime routine for naps during the day.

Here is an example of a bedtime routine:

• Warm bath: Start off with a calming warm bath to relax your baby.
• Baby massage: Follow up with a gentle massage using baby-friendly lotion to soothe and unwind.
• Clean diaper and pajamas: Change into a fresh diaper and cozy pajamas to get ready for bed.
• Breastfeed or bottle feed while cuddling: Enjoy some quiet feeding time while snuggling closely with your baby.
• Cuddly time with baby: Spend a few moments cuddling and bonding with your baby before gently placing them in their crib or bassinet for sleep.