Sleep Regression

Sleep regression doesn't work the same for, nor does it even happen noticeably to, every baby. As adults we think of these episodes where baby appears to be unlearning how to sleep at night as a regression because they seem to be going backwards on their progress. It can be so frustrating as a parent to get your baby on a sleep schedule and then it no longer works. While many people are quick to label these periods as regression, one could also see it as a progression, another manifestation of neurodevelopment with some inconvenient nocturnal side effects.

There is much discussion on the dreaded “four month regression” or “six month regression” or any other period of sleep regression. These are the times where sticking to your sleep plan and not falling back into unhealthy sleep habits can be especially challenging but being consistent and persistent will help you pass through these periods with ease, especially if you have been practicing healthy sleep habits and regular bedtime routines since the first couple of weeks.

If baby has been sleeping through the night and then suddenly starts waking up at least once a night (assuming baby isn’t ill), chances are they are going through some neuro-developmental leap that is impacting their sleep. Prior to this, if baby has been making it all night without eating, you know they are capable so don’t go back to feeding them at night or you will have to start sleep training all over again. Going in to give baby a few soothing words will reassure them that parents are still close by, but that this is a time for sleep. Avoid taking baby out of the crib as this will wake them up further and they will expect a feeding.

By Hannah Mira, Founder of Bonsoir Bebe Sleep Consulting