Every Sleep Regression that Parents Need To Know
If you're wondering about sleep regressions, it's likely that both you and your fussy, sleep-resistant baby have been lacking rest. Sleep regressions can be tough for everyone, but fortunately, most children (though not all) don’t go through every single regression. If they did, no one would get any sleep in those first two years!
If you suspect your baby or toddler might be experiencing a sleep regression, consider the following questions:
Is your previously good-napping baby now refusing naps?
Has your baby recently acquired a new skill (like rolling over, sitting up, starting solids, crawling, or walking)?
Has your baby been hungrier than usual?
Is your baby approaching one of the typical ages for a sleep regression?
Contrary to popular belief, sleep regressions don’t just happen randomly; they often coincide with new developmental milestones or growth spurts.
Key Sleep Regressions
4-Month Sleep Regression
This is a time when babies become more aware of the world, when they first start to attempt to roll, when they have more neck control and is able to view the world in a more upright position independently, and when their circadian rhythms are more established. They are more aware of the fact that they are actually a separate being from their mommy.
8-Month Sleep Regression
Usually occurring between eight and nine months, this regression coincides with the development of gross motor skills, like crawling or pulling up on furniture. Cognitively, there is also a lot going on with grasping the concept of object permanence, and the very early stages of language comprehension. With countless neurons firing in the brain at all times, its no wonder that their brains are so active when they’re supposed to sleep!
9-Month Sleep Regression
This may be linked to new motor abilities such as walking or standing. Nighttime awakenings can stem from your child’s budding independence, alongside an increased clinginess.
To ease this regression, play peek-a-boo in the day, and practice reassuring your baby when you leave and return. It is also encouraged to include special cuddle time during your night time routine with your baby.
10-Month Sleep Regression
At this age, developmental milestones continue to play a role. Your baby may be fascinated by stacking toys or may have just started walking, and some, even their first words.
18-Month Sleep Regression
18 months is often a very tough sleep regression. For one, your old tricks of “sleep training”, if you did do traditional controlled crying or cry-it-out previously, will not work with a toddler that knows better. Your toddler's language skills begin to develop rapidly, and they may also be transitioning from two naps to one nap while also experimenting with heightened and stronger, more physical tantrums. I do not like the term “Terrible 2’s”, because I feel like it is understandably frustrating for them if we take their perspective; but we do start to see glimpses of these difficult times starting at 18 months.
2-Year Sleep Regression
At this age, your toddler is really starting to understand choices, leading to power struggles and sleep battles, very strong separation anxiety, while also grasping concepts like consequences and cause and effect.
Fortunately, sleep regressions are temporary, typically can last between 2 to 6 weeks, according to Kim West, The Sleep Lady. While some infants may endure longer periods, most experience about four weeks of sleep difficulties. Many parents ask when they can start sleep coaching during a regression.
It’s not advisable to begin formal sleep training during a regression, (and my recommendation is to not “train” but gently “coach” especially for toddlers), but you can introduce sleep shaping methods and introduce sleep coaching around 3-4 weeks after it starts for babies older than 6 months. If you were already coaching, you can continue from where you left off.
In the meantime, maintain your soothing bedtime routine and provide extra love and support.
Avoiding Negative Sleep Patterns
Be cautious not to let a sleep regression become a new norm. It’s okay to adapt during a regression, as that might be the only way to get some sleep. Most babies are ready to start sleep coaching about four weeks into sleep struggles linked to developmental changes. If it extends to 5, 7, or 10 weeks, evaluate the situation.
Has your baby mastered rolling over or walking? If so, you may need to initiate sleep coaching soon to prevent poor sleep habits from becoming entrenched.
If you've unintentionally created a negative sleep association, don't worry. There will always be ways to gently fade and transition out of these associations or habits.
Getting Back to Sleep Coaching
While your child is in a regression, ensure they get enough rest, whether through stroller rides, car trips, or cuddles. Remember that sleep regressions are developmental, not a coaching issue.
As your baby exits a regression, you might notice:
Increased receptiveness to naps
Easier nighttime sleep after a struggle
A normalization of appetite
If you observe these signs, select a day to begin sleep coaching your child, preferably aligning it with a weekend or holiday for a smoother transition.
