Understanding the Sleep Regression

By the age of approximately 6 months, about 62% of infants are resting for 6 hours at night, with only 43% achieving 8-hour stretches of sleep. Sleep regressions are a common occurrence and often coincide with developmental leaps in cognitive abilities.

Sleep regressions can occur at various stages in a child’s development, not just at 6 months. They can happen around 4 months, 8 months, and even around 18 months. These regressions are often temporary and can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. During these times, babies may wake up more frequently during the night, have difficulty falling asleep, or have changes in their nap schedule.

Research Findings

Research indicates that up to 38% of 6-month-old babies do not sleep continuously for 6 hours at night, and 57% are unable to maintain an 8-hour stretch of sleep.

Possible Causes

• Alteration in surroundings
• Feelings of separation anxiety
• Teething discomfort
• Distracted feeding patterns
• Advancements in development
• Adjustment in sleep routines

6-Month-Old Sleep Patterns

Most 6-month-old infants sleep for 12-16 hours per day, usually going to bed between 7-9 pm. Night awakenings may occur, but they should not require feeding.

Normal Behavior

While some babies face a sleep regression, others do not. Both situations are considered normal, and enhancements in sleep quality can be expected.

Durations and Signs

The 6-month sleep regression may persist for a few days or even a few weeks if proper sleep routines are not established. Signs of the regression include increased fussiness, frequent night waking, and difficulty falling asleep.

Coping Mechanisms

Keep in mind that sleep regressions are temporary phases, and it is important to practice self-care during these challenging times.

Strategies to Implement

Introduce sleep cues like white noise and pacifiers, and adjust your baby’s bedtime schedule as necessary.

Wake-and-Sleep Trick

Teach your baby self-soothing techniques by placing them in the crib when they are drowsy but still awake at bedtime.

Promoting Self-Soothing

Allow your baby a brief period to calm themselves before intervening when they wake up at night.

Addressing Nighttime Hunger

If your 6-month-old wakes up out of habit, gradually decrease nighttime feedings to encourage longer periods of sleep.

Congratulations on your recent SNOO graduate! Transition your baby to the award-winning Sleepea 5-Second Swaddle that provides the comfort of their favorite SNOO Sack without the “wings.”

Final Thoughts on the 6-Month Sleep Regression

Remember, sleep regressions signal developmental leaps. Prepare for them by offering strong sleep cues, ensuring a dark room at the right temperature, using white noise, and offering a pacifier.

More on Sleep and Your 6-Month-Old:

• How to Sleep Train a 6-Month-Old
• Transitioning Baby from SNOO to a Crib—3 Easy Steps
• Your Baby’s 6-Month Milestones
• Nap Advice From Pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp
• Uninterrupted Infant Sleep, Development, and Maternal Mood
• The Happiest Baby on the Block
• The American Academy of Pediatrics: How to Ease Your Child’s Separation Anxiety
• Australian Breastfeeding Association: Feeding Your Distractible Baby

• During the 6-month sleep regression, it is important to maintain a consistent bedtime routine to help your baby feel secure and relaxed.
• Offer comfort and reassurance to your baby during this time, as they may be feeling unsettled by the changes in their sleep patterns.
• Avoid introducing any new sleep habits that you may have to break later on, as this can make the regression last longer.
• Seek support from other parents who may be going through the same experience, as sharing tips and advice can be helpful in overcoming the challenges of the 6-month sleep regression.

What is the 6-month sleep regression?

Understand that the 6-month sleep regression is a temporary phase that influences your baby’s sleep patterns due to developmental changes. Learn what to anticipate and ways to cope during this period.

Why does your baby stop sleeping during this time?

Your baby’s developmental milestones might disrupt their sleep. Learn about adjustments in nap routines and transitioning to a larger bed for safety and comfort during this phase.

Do sleep regressions happen at other ages?

Sleep regressions are common during the first two years, with notable occurrences at four months, six months, and other stages due to developmental, teething, and growth factors.

What are the signs of sleep regression?

Recognize signs of sleep regression in your child, such as increased night awakenings, shorter naps, bedtime challenges, and daytime crankiness, indicating the necessity for modifications.

How long does a 6-month sleep regression usually last?

Remember, the 6-month sleep regression is temporary and will pass. Stay patient and consistent throughout this phase.

Do all babies experience sleep regressions?

Not all babies face significant sleep changes during regressions. If your baby continues to sleep soundly, consider yourself fortunate!

12) Consider sleep training.

If your baby continues to struggle with sleep, you may consider sleep training methods to help them develop healthy sleep habits. Consult with a pediatrician or sleep specialist to determine the best approach for your child.

20) Create a soothing sleep environment.

Ensure that your baby’s sleep space is conducive to restful sleep. Keep the room dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Consider using blackout curtains to block out light and creating a calming bedtime routine to signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep.

21) Practice patience and consistency.

Remember that the 6-month sleep regression is temporary, and with patience and consistency, you and your baby will get through this challenging phase. Stick to your bedtime routine, continue to prioritize your own sleep, and seek support from loved ones when needed.

Better sleep is coming!

The challenges of the 6-month sleep regression will not last forever. Better nights are on the horizon!

Frequently asked questions

Which sleep regression is the most challenging?

The four-month sleep regression can be tough as babies’ sleep patterns develop. They may struggle to fall asleep independently.

Why is my six-month-old waking up so early in the morning?

Adjust your baby’s sleep routine if they wake up early at six months old, try an earlier bedtime or tweak nap times.

How do I know if my baby is experiencing a six-month regression or teething?

Look for signs of teething if your baby faces sleep disruptions. Maintain consistency in their routine to avoid prolonged disturbances.

If my six-month old won’t nap anymore, is this a sleep regression?

It is common for infants to experience nap regressions around the age of 6 months, which may require adjustments to their nap routine or assistance in self-soothing to help them connect sleep cycles.

Meet the Authors

Robyn Rosenblum, a pediatrician with a background in medical education, and Krystal Blackman-Navarrete, who heads the Newton Customer Experience team, specializing in promoting safe sleep practices for families, have contributed to this content.