If you’re a parent, the term ‘Sleep Regression’ may have you tossing and turning in your own sleep-deprived night. But don’t fret! Sleep Regression is a common phase in a baby’s development journey, and it’s a sign of progress rather than a setback.
Let’s explore what sleep regression is, why it happens, and how to navigate this challenging but temporary phase with patience, understanding and love.
What is Sleep Regression?
Sleep Regression is a period when a previously well-sleeping baby or toddler suddenly starts experiencing disrupted sleep patterns. During this phase, your little one may wake up more frequently during the night, have difficulty falling asleep or resist nap times.
Common Triggers
1. Growth Spurts: Babies go through growth spurts and their increased hunger can lead to more frequent night feedings. Growth spurts are commonly around 3, 6, and 9 months for babies and around 12-18 months for toddlers.
2. Developmental Milestones: When babies are working on new skills like crawling, standing or walking, their brains are often too active to settle down easily for sleep.
3. Teething: Teething can be uncomfortable and painful (think tooth-ache!) for babies, making sleep less restful.
4. Change in Routing: Any change in the daily routine or family schedule, that your baby has become used to, can trigger sleep regression.
How to Navigate Sleep Regression:
1. Stay Consistent: Maintain a consistent bedtime routine, which helps signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep. This routine can include activities like a warm bath, baby massage, reading a story, and gentle lullabies.
2. Comfort and Soothe: If your baby wakes up, resist the urge to immediately pick them up. I know this will be difficult, but instead try comforting them with a gentle pat, soothing words, or their favourite comforter.
3. Adjust naps: Make sure you baby is getting the right amount of daytime sleep. Over-tiredness can make sleep regression much more challenging. Find out how much sleep your baby really needs here: Baby Sleep
4. Manage Night Feeds: If your baby was previously sleeping through the night but is now waking up for feeds, try to gradually reduce the number of night-time feedings. Discuss with your GP, Paediatrician or Health Visitor to ensure your baby is getting enough nutrition during the day.
5. Room Environment: Ensure the sleep environment is conducive to rest. A dark, cool room with gentle white noise can help create a comfortable sleep atmosphere.
6. Patience and Understanding: Remember this phase is temporary. Babies go through various developmental stages, and their sleep patterns will eventually stabilise.
7. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider or a trusted resource, like a sleep consultant if sleep regression become too overwhelming for you or your baby. They can provide some much needed guidance and reassurance.
The Silver Lining
While sleep regression can be challenging, remember it’s a sign of your baby’s growth and development. It means they’re reaching important milestones, learning new skills and adapting to the world around them. Plus it’s an opportunity for you bond with your little one during the night-time comforting and cuddles.
Navigating Sleep Regression may not always be easy, but it is a normal part of your baby’s journey towards growth and development. With patience, understanding, and love, you can help your little one find their way back to restful nights. This too shall pass and you’ll soon be celebrating new milestones in your child’s life, along with some well-deserved peaceful nights of sleep.
