Sleep Regressions: What They Are and How to Survive Them

Your baby was sleeping 5-6 hours straight. Then, out of nowhere, they start waking up every hour. What happened? Most likely, you're going through a sleep regression.

What is a sleep regression?

It's a period when a baby who was sleeping relatively well starts waking up more often, struggles to fall asleep, or takes shorter naps. It typically lasts 2-6 weeks and coincides with intense phases of brain development.

Your baby's brain is running a "software update" -- and during installation, sleep takes the hit.

When do they happen?

The most common regressions occur around:

4 months (the most well-known)

The baby's sleep cycle changes: it shifts from 2 to 4-5 sleep stages like an adult's. This is a permanent change -- it's not a "step backward" but a step forward.

8-10 months

This coincides with crawling, stranger anxiety, and separation anxiety. The baby has too much to process to sleep peacefully.

12 months

First steps, a language explosion. The brain is buzzing with activity.

18 months

The assertion of independence, the first "no's," tantrums. Naps may also decrease.

How to handle them

Stick to the routine

Don't change the bedtime routine. Consistency is your anchor during the storm. Same time, same rituals, same sequence.

Don't create new habits

The temptation is strong: nursing them back to sleep, bringing them into your bed, rocking them for an hour. What you do during the regression becomes the new normal.

Respond, but gradually

If they cry, go to them. Reassure them with your voice, a gentle touch. But try not to pick them up as a first response.

Take care of yourself

Broken nights wear you down. Take turns with your partner if possible, sleep when the baby sleeps, and accept help when it's offered.

The 4-month regression: a special case

This regression is the only one that doesn't truly "pass" -- because it represents a permanent change in sleep structure. If before the regression your baby only fell asleep at the breast or in your arms, after the regression they may struggle to fall back asleep on their own between sleep cycles.

The solution? Gradually work on self-soothing: putting the baby in their crib drowsy but awake.

Regressions do end. Your baby is growing -- and so are you.