The dreaded regressions!

I think I must have hit the jackpot with my babies because I really don’t remember a regression. Don’t hate me!

Or, maybe I just blocked them out! The first 6 months are a bit of a blur. The first year is a bit of a blur come to think about it!

While some parents are going to hit the jackpot and find their baby sleeps well throughout, others may find that their babies will struggle through some regressions. But are they actually regressions? Or just a sign your baby is changing and developing?

‘Regressions’, (I’m using this term very lightly), generally occur during periods of changes, or stages of development. Typically, we observe these around the ages of 4, 6, 8, 12, and 18 months, with another ‘regression’ often appearing around age two.

While some can be resolved through troubleshooting, others may be indicative of the need for a new schedule.

The so-called 4-month sleep 'regression' is actually a permanent change in sleeping habits, and is often the most challenging. At this stage, infants begin to sleep more like adults, waking up multiple times during the night, but without recollection. Think of it like this… we as adults, wake up so many times during the night, we just don’t realise it. We do this because we’ve evolved to check for dangers. Am I OK? Am I safe? Do I need anything? Do I need the loo…? As an adult, we’ve learned (hopefully), how to fall back to sleep quickly. Most of the time we don’t even know we’re awake.

Be prepared for a big one that can last for a while. The 4-month sleep regression is a significant and disruptive event that shapes your baby's sleeping patterns. During this period, your baby will learn to settle and link sleep cycles, leading to longer periods of sleep.

At this stage, a baby's sleep cycle typically lasts around 45 minutes. When the cycle ends, your baby may wake up or become unsettled. However, by the end of the regression, your baby will be able to sleep for more extended periods even after waking up.

Coping with Your Baby's 4-Month Sleep Regression

If you're a new parent, you may be surprised to learn that sleep regressions are quite common for babies. But fear not – you're not alone! Talking, supporting one another, and reducing stress can help you through these challenging periods.

Reach out to your mum group to share experiences, swap tips, and feel less isolated. Let your baby rest as needed to reset their sleep pattern.

Spend time doing skin-to-skin contact, cuddling, and feeding. Be there for your baby when they need you most. Take breaks when you need them and lean on your partner for support.

Lastly, don't forget to take care of yourself. Take a walk outside or rest when possible, and make sure to have snacks nearby. You've got this!

What to do when it’s over? Is it ever over?

Unlike us, infants need to be taught the self-soothing skill, which is where sleep training comes in. Sleep training involves teaching infants to fall asleep independently, connect their sleep cycles, and ultimately learn self-soothing techniques. Without these skills, infants may wake up looking for what put them back to sleep, with some unable to figure it out on their own. This can be even more challenging with multiples, but an age-appropriate schedule and a consistent routine can help alleviate some of the difficulties.

Please no, that sleep training is NOT leaving your baby to cry. There is so much stigma surrounding sleep training. It’s beginning to change, but I’m here to tell you that you definitely do need to respond to your baby’s needs and do not need to leave them alone at the time where they need you the most! There are many, many ways, to help your child to learn how to connect those cycles, without adding more pressure on you all.

The 12 Month Regression: Also know as the one-year sleep regression:

Again, is less of a regression but of change and development. It could be caused by a combination of factors, including teething, separation anxiety, and developmental milestones such as crawling and walking. Your baby is changing!!

This usually impacts napping and does not indicate that your child is ready to transition to one nap. It may last up to 4 weeks, so keep pushing through.

To help your baby through this phase, consider implementing a consistent bedtime routine, offering comfort and reassurance during night wakings, and making sure your baby is getting enough daytime sleep. It's also important to remember that this regression is temporary and will eventually pass.

The 2-Year Regression:

This often takes the form of protest, but it is best to persevere through this regression stage.

The two-year regression is a common developmental phase that many toddlers experience. During this time, children may exhibit changes in their behaviour such as increased tantrums, difficulty sleeping, and picky eating habits. While it can be a challenging time for both children and parents, it is important to remember that it is a normal part of development and will eventually pass.

Some tips for navigating this phase include maintaining a consistent routine, setting clear boundaries, and providing plenty of love and reassurance. With patience and understanding, parents can help their child successfully navigate the two-year regression.

Again, I’m not sure mine went through the 2 year regression, nor did they have the terrible twos…..threes on the other hand!!!! Different ball game altogether!

Are you struggling with a developmental leap (‘regression’)? Get in touch for tailored support and good luck!

If you need any support, as always I’m here. Book a call and we can talk about what’s going on with your sleep and make a plan to ultimately…get you some!

Schedule a Free Sleep Assessment here!

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