Ever feel like your little one is going through a regression that seems to last forever? I did! I’ve come to call this “blame the regression denial,” haha. It’s that moment when your baby actually went through a sleep regression, but things never quite returned to normal.
Now, your baby nursing to sleep every two hours in the middle of the night has become a habit. Sounds familiar?
Here’s a rule of thumb that can help you identify if you are still going through the regression or it's a habit:
If it’s been happening for less than two weeks, it’s likely a sleep regression.
If it’s been going on for more than two weeks, it’s a habit.
Let’s dive into this topic and understand more about sleep regressions.
What Is a Sleep Regression?
A sleep regression is a period when your baby, who may have been sleeping well, suddenly starts waking up more frequently during the night or struggles to fall asleep. This can happen out of the blue and often coincides with developmental milestones. Your little one is growing, learning new skills, and their brain is firing on all cylinders—so much so that it can disrupt their sleep.
Sleep regressions can be frustrating, but they are usually temporary. Most last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks as your baby adjusts to their new abilities or changes.
What Are the Most Common Sleep Regressions?
There are a few key stages when sleep regressions tend to hit but this does not mean your baby won't go through some others. Remember sleep regressions happen every time your baby is learning something new.
4-Month Sleep Regression: This is one of the first big ones. Around four months, your baby’s sleep cycles start to mature, which can lead to more frequent night wakings.
8-10 Month Sleep Regression: As your baby starts to crawl, pull up, and maybe even stand, their brain is working overtime. This excitement can lead to disrupted sleep.
12-Month Sleep Regression: This one often coincides with learning to walk and talk. It’s a big year for your baby, and their sleep might take a hit.
18-Month Sleep Regression: Around this age, separation anxiety and teething can play a role in sleep disturbances.
2-Year Sleep Regression: As toddlers become more independent, they might test boundaries, including at bedtime. This can lead to battles at bedtime or more night wakings.
How to Break Habits?
If your baby’s sleep disruptions have been going on for more than two weeks, it’s likely a habit rather than a regression. But don’t worry—habits can be changed! Here’s how:
Identify the Habit: What is it that your baby is relying on to fall asleep? Nursing? Rocking? Holding? Understanding the habit is the first step to changing it.
Gradually Change the Routine: Start by slowly reducing the habit. For example, if your baby needs to be rocked to sleep, try rocking them until they are drowsy, then putting them down to fall asleep on their own.
Be Consistent: Consistency is key when breaking a habit. It might take some time, but sticking to a new routine will help your baby adjust.
Offer Comfort in Other Ways: If your baby wakes up and looks for the old habit, offer comfort in a different way, like patting their back or using a soothing voice to reassure them.
It’s important to mention that there’s nothing wrong with these habits if they’re working for your family. If you’re happy with the way things are and everyone is getting enough sleep, there’s no need to make changes. But if you’re feeling exhausted or your baby’s sleep habits are disrupting the household, it might be time to consider a new approach.
If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with a sleep regression or a habit, or if you need help breaking those habits, I’m here for you. Schedule a free call with me, and let’s discuss how we can get your little one (and you!) to sleep better.
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