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If your baby’s sleep seems difficult or disrupted, you may be facing a sleep regression. Let’s explore what these regressions entail and how to effectively handle them.
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A “sleep regression” refers to a temporary disturbance in your child’s sleep schedule, often caused by developmental milestones or transitions. Sleep disruptions can occur when your child’s brain is busy concentrating on growth in different areas.
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As babies develop and learn, sleep can sometimes take a backseat, resulting in issues like waking up at night or refusing naps. It’s important to remember that sleep skills do not suddenly disappear at certain ages. Sleep regressions can happen due to new milestones, cognitive advancements, or physical changes at any stage of development.
It is common for babies to experience sleep regressions around 4 months, 8-10 months, and 18 months. During these times, it may be helpful to establish a consistent bedtime routine, ensure a calm and dark sleep environment, and provide comfort and reassurance to your baby.
Remember, sleep regressions are a temporary phase and with patience and consistency, you can help your baby navigate through these disruptions and establish healthy sleep habits.
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Sleep regressions commonly occur around 4 months, 8-10 months, 12 months, and 18 months in a baby’s first year, with additional regressions possibly at 6 months or 14-15 months. They can also manifest during the toddler years around 2 years and 3 years.
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Babies going through a sleep regression may also experience changes in appetite, increased clinginess, and difficulty settling down for naps or bedtime. These regressions are often temporary and can be triggered by developmental milestones, changes in routine, or growth spurts.
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Teething symptoms like swollen gums, irritability, and chewing on objects may be present. However, prolonged sleep difficulties are unlikely to be solely due to teething. Comforting a teething baby will not have long-term effects on their sleep, and normal patterns typically resume after teething is over.
Important Note: If abrupt changes in sleep patterns persist along with intense crying, be sure to check for signs of illness or discomfort.
| Symptoms of Teething | Symptoms of Regression |
|---|---|
| Gums appear swollen with white growths | Resistance to taking naps or going to bed |
| + Feeling easily annoyed |
| + Difficulty sleeping through the night |
| + More focused on liquids |
| + Awakening early in the morning |
| * Excessive saliva production | * Heightened feelings of being apart |
- Recognize the signs of a sleep regression, such as increased night waking, difficulty falling asleep, and changes in napping patterns.
- Stick to your baby’s bedtime routine to provide comfort and security during this challenging time.
- Comfort your baby when needed, but try not to create new sleep associations that may be difficult to break later on.
- Avoid introducing any major changes during a regression, such as transitioning to a new sleep environment or weaning off night feedings.
- Reach out to a pediatrician or sleep consultant for additional support and guidance if the regression persists.
Taking Cara Babies Classes
If your baby’s sleep is disrupted during a regression, taking proactive steps is better than waiting it out. Our classes are tailored to your child’s specific stage of development, offering immediate assistance. Get started according to your child’s age range:
- Newborns: 0–4 months
- Babies: 5–24 months
- Toddlers: 2–4 years
In addition to age-appropriate sleep solutions, our classes also offer expert tips on creating a calming bedtime routine, establishing healthy sleep habits, and managing sleep regressions. We understand the challenges parents face when it comes to their child’s sleep, and our goal is to provide the support and guidance needed for better sleep for the whole family.
Don’t wait for sleep troubles to resolve on their own – take proactive steps today with Taking Cara Babies classes. Your child’s restful sleep is just a click away!
Do all babies have sleep regressions? # anchor
While not all babies go through every regression phase, building a strong sleep foundation can help minimize disturbances during regressions and lead to quicker resolutions.
How do I handle a sleep regression? # anchor
Continue reading for tips on supporting your baby during a regression:
1. Pay attention to changing sleep needs. # anchor
Adjust your baby’s awake windows as they grow to ensure they are tired enough to fall and stay asleep.
2. Practice new skills during awake time. # anchor
Encourage practicing new skills during awake time to reduce bedtime excitement.
3. Plan for active awake time. # anchor
Engage your baby in active awake time to promote better sleep at night and during naps.
Need ideas for daytime activities to improve sleep?
Download our Daytime Tips for Better Nights and Naps.
4. Keep bedtime in the sweet spot. # anchor
Set a bedtime between 7:00-8:00 pm for optimal sleep quality.
5. Understand the changes happening in your baby’s brain. # anchor
Understanding your baby’s developmental stage can help you provide better support during awake times, ultimately improving sleep quality.
6. Maintain healthy sleep habits. # anchor
Consistency in your sleep approach can help you navigate regressions more effectively.
7. Start with a great little sleeper. # anchor
A solid sleep foundation can minimize the impact of regressions. Check out our classes for newborns and babies to create a personalized plan for better sleep, even during regressions.
Eric Suni, an experienced science writer, previously served as an information specialist at the National Cancer Institute.
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Ealena Callender, MD, MPH, FACOG
Dr. Callender, a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist, specializes in women’s health.
Discover more about our experts in the field:
- How Does a Child’s Sleep Change Around 12 Months?
- What Are the Symptoms of a 12-Month Sleep Regression?
- How Can Parents Cope With Sleep Problems in a One-Year-Old?
- Infants develop more consistent sleep patterns as they grow.
- Signs of a 12-month sleep regression include frequent wakings, difficulties falling back asleep, agitation, longer naps, and more.
- Encouraging healthy habits and trying various strategies can improve your child’s sleep during regressions.
As babies reach their first birthday, parents are often amazed by their development. While many babies establish a more regular sleep schedule by this age, changes can still occur, including potential regressions around the 12-month mark.
How Does a Child’s Sleep Change Around 12 Months?
As babies grow, their sleep duration increases, with longer hours at night and naps during the day. Children aged 1 to 2 years should aim for 11 to 14 hours of sleep daily, including naps.
While some babies start sleeping through the night around 6 months old, others may take longer. Sleep patterns vary, with around 72% of 12-month-olds sleeping for at least 6 hours continuously at night.
These changes in sleep coincide with important developmental milestones like enhanced emotional engagement, communication, cognitive skills, and physical abilities such as standing and walking.
What Causes a 12-Month Sleep Regression?
Around the first birthday, some children may experience sleep regression due to factors like restlessness from physical growth, separation anxiety, teething, or adjustment to new sleep patterns.
Do All Children Have a 12-Month Sleep Regression?
While not all 1-year-olds go through sleep regression, it is common due to the diverse nature of sleep development in infants. Some children may actually see improvements in their sleep at this age.
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What Are the Symptoms of a 12-Month Sleep Regression?
During a 12-month sleep regression, parents may notice their child waking up more frequently, being cranky, resisting sleep, or taking longer naps.
How Long Do Symptoms of a 12-Month Sleep Regression Last?
Typically lasting a few weeks, the symptoms of a 12-month sleep regression can be influenced by various factors. Establishing healthy sleep habits early on can prevent future sleep issues in children.
How Can Parents Cope With Sleep Problems in a One-Year-Old?
To help children sleep better, maintain consistent bedtime routines, sleep schedules, minimize distractions, and encourage daytime activity for healthier sleep patterns.
Although sleep challenges may persist, establishing these habits early on can lead to better sleep quality over time.
Addressing Nighttime Awakenings and Separation Anxiety
Dealing with separation anxiety at bedtime can be tough, but a consistent approach can help children feel secure and improve their sleep.
Managing Sleep Problems From Teething
Teething may cause bedtime fussiness, but providing teething aids like rings or cool washcloths can provide relief.
When Should Parents Talk With a Doctor About Sleep Problems in a 1-Year-Old?
For persistent sleep issues, consulting a pediatrician is recommended. Most sleep regressions resolve within a few weeks, but ongoing problems or new changes should be addressed promptly.
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Self-Care For Parents and Caregivers
Parenting can be challenging, and it’s important to recognize that every baby’s sleep pattern is unique. Occasional sleep struggles are normal and do not reflect on your parenting skills. Setting realistic expectations and seeking help when needed are crucial.
Parents should also prioritize getting enough sleep themselves. A good night’s rest is essential for overall health and well-being.
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