Surviving Sleep Regressions: Your Baby's First Year

Hearing the word "regression" can be scary and daunting, especially when it comes to your baby's sleep. But remember, sleep regressions are a sign that your baby is developing, changing, growing, and learning new skills. As a Mom who has been through all the regressions, I’m here to tell you that while these phases are challenging, they’re also temporary and manageable.

What Are Sleep Regressions?

Sleep regressions are periods when a baby who previously slept well starts waking frequently at night or has trouble settling down for naps and/or bedtime. These phases can last from a few days to a couple of weeks and often coincide with significant developmental milestones, growth spurts, or changes in routine.

When Do Sleep Regressions Occur?

While every baby is unique, there are common times during the first year when sleep regressions are likely to occur:

4 Months: The first significant sleep regression usually happens around this time. Your baby’s sleep cycles are maturing, and they begin to experience lighter sleep stages, leading to more frequent wakings.

6 Months: At this age, babies often start teething and may become more aware of their surroundings, which can disrupt their sleep.

8-10 Months: This period is marked by major developmental milestones like crawling, standing, and possibly even walking. Separation anxiety can also start around this age, making it harder for babies to settle at night.

12 Months: As your baby reaches their first birthday, they might experience another sleep regression. Increased mobility, improved communication skills, and the impending transition from two naps to one can all contribute to sleep disturbances.

Signs of a Sleep Regression

Identifying a sleep regression can help you manage it more effectively. Common signs include:

• Increased night wakings

• Difficulty falling asleep at bedtime

• Shorter naps or trouble napping

• Increased fussiness or clinginess during the day

How to Handle Sleep Regressions

Understanding that sleep regressions are temporary and part of your baby's development can make them easier to handle. Here are some strategies to help manage them:

1. Maintain a Consistent Routine: Consistency is key. Stick to a regular bedtime and naptime routine to signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep. Include calming activities like a warm bath, gentle music, or reading a book.

2. Create a Sleep Inducing Environment: Ensure your baby’s sleep space is conducive to rest. A dark, quiet room with a comfortable temperature and minimal distractions can help promote better sleep.

3. Respond to Needs, But Avoid Creating New Sleep Associations: Comfort your baby when they wake, but try to avoid creating new sleep associations that might become problematic. For example, avoid starting to rock your baby to sleep if you haven’t done so before.

4. Practice New Skills During the Day: If your baby is learning new skills like crawling or standing, give them plenty of opportunities to practice during the day. This can help reduce their need to practice at night.

5. Stay Calm and Patient: Sleep regressions can be frustrating, but maintaining a calm and patient demeanor can help your baby feel more secure. Remember, this phase is temporary.

6. Return to Sleep Training Basics: If you’ve previously used sleep training methods, come back to those basics and stick with them. Consistency is crucial in helping your baby get back on track.

Sleep regressions are a normal part of your baby’s development. By knowing when they’re likely to happen and using some tried and true strategies, you can help your baby (and yourself) get through these tough periods more smoothly.

In the midst of those sleepless nights and fussy days, keep in mind one of my favorite quotes in motherhood: "This too shall pass". I know, it can be tough to remember this when you’re in the thick of it, but all of these phases will come and go. Just ride the wave, Mama's :)

If you’ve tried the above strategies for more than two weeks and are still facing challenges, it might not be a regression anymore—your baby might need a schedule change. I can help with this! Send me a note or set up a free call TODAY.