Sleep Regression: What Is It & When Does It Happen?
What is Sleep Regression and When Does it Happen?
Sleep regression is a term used to describe a period when a baby or toddler who has been sleeping well suddenly starts waking up frequently at night, resisting naps, or having trouble falling asleep. These regressions are typically linked to developmental milestones and can be a challenging phase for both babies and their caregivers.
Understanding Sleep Regression
Sleep regression is not a medical term but rather a common phrase used by parents and sleep experts to describe temporary disruptions in a baby's sleep pattern. These disruptions can last from a few days to several weeks and are often associated with significant growth and developmental changes in the baby’s life. Unfortunately, these temporary disruptions can provoke parents to adopt new habits, which can cause months of sleep disruption for their baby.
When Does Sleep Regression Happen?
Sleep regressions can occur at various stages during the first two years of a child's life. The most common ages for sleep regressions are around 4, 6, 8, 12, 18, and 24 months[1][2]. Each of these periods corresponds to key developmental milestones:
4 Months: This is often the first and most notable sleep regression parents encounter. Around this age, babies begin to sleep more like adults, transitioning from deep sleep to lighter sleep more frequently. This change can lead to more frequent night wakings[1][2].
6 Months: At this stage, babies are often learning to sit up, roll over, and may start to experience separation anxiety. These new skills and emotions can disrupt their sleep patterns[1].
8-10 Months: This period often coincides with babies learning to crawl and stand. The excitement and practice of these new skills can lead to more night wakings and difficulty settling down[1].
12 Months: As babies approach their first birthday, they may start walking and talking. These major milestones can cause sleep disturbances as their brains are very active processing these new abilities[1].
18 Months: Toddlers at this age may experience another regression due to teething, increased independence, and possibly transitioning from two naps to one[1].
24 Months: The two-year mark can bring about sleep challenges due to potty training, moving to a toddler bed, or the arrival of a new sibling. These significant changes can disrupt a toddler’s sense of security and routine[1].
Causes of Sleep Regression
Several factors can contribute to sleep regression, including the following:
Developmental Milestones: As babies learn new skills, their sleep can be disrupted. The brain is highly active during these times, which can lead to more frequent awakenings[1][2].
Teething: The discomfort from teething can cause babies to wake up more often at night[2].
Illness: Common colds, ear infections, or other illnesses can disrupt sleep patterns[2].
Changes in Routine: Starting daycare, traveling, or changes in the home environment can also lead to sleep regressions[2].
Managing Sleep Regression
While sleep regressions can be challenging, there are strategies to help manage them:
Maintain a Consistent Routine: Keeping a regular bedtime routine can provide a sense of security and help babies settle down more easily[2]. Also, maintaining your baby’s independent sleep habits, keeping your baby in the crib for the duration of normal nap times and nighttime is key. The more consistent their routine remains, the sooner they adapt and sleep normally again. Otherwise, parents’ new responses teach babies new habits and a new routine is formed. Poor sleeping habits can persist for months as a result.
Comfort and Reassure: Providing extra comfort and reassurance during these times can help babies feel more secure[2]. But still keep their independent sleep routine the same, despite the temptation to intervene more often.
Be Patient: Understanding that sleep regressions are temporary and a normal part of development can help parents cope with these challenging periods[2].
When to Seek Help
If your baby is experiencing sleep regression due to illness, consult your pediatrician for advice to aid your baby’s recovery. If your baby is experiencing a sleep regression due to developmental milestones, changes of routine, or unknown causes, seek advice from a baby sleep consultant. Quality advice from a baby sleep expert can help healthy babies sleep all night within 7 days.
[1]: Medical News Today [2]: What to Expect
References
[1] Sleep regression: Stages, definition, and more - Medical News Today
[2] Signs of Sleep Regression in Babies and What to Do About It
