Tips to overcome your baby's sleep crisis
Sleep regression or crisis is a period of time when your baby experiences a regression in his sleep patterns. During a regression, your little one goes from sleeping steadily to having nighttime awakenings, difficulty calming down, shorter naps, or simply not being able to sleep when you put him to bed. This can be incredibly exhausting and frustrating for you, so here are some tips to help you cope.
Keep your baby's sleeping routine consistent
- When experiencing sleep problems with our babies, the first reaction is to try to solve it by introducing changes in the sleeping routine. Even though sleep regressions ruin your baby's usual schedule, try to keep his sleep routine as consistent as possible.
Don't introduce new sleeping habits
- You may need to provide a little more support for your baby. However, try not to change their entire sleep routine or introduce new habits to help them get back to sleep. This can create an external dependency and will make things much more difficult in the long run.
Adjust the time you put him to bed
- If you notice that your baby's naps are shorter than usual and he looks tired, don't hesitate to put him to bed earlier! This will help him catch up on lost sleep and prevent him from becoming over-tired.
Give your baby extra food
- With the big changes in your little one's development and growth comes an increased appetite . Don't be afraid to offer some extra meals or feedings if you see your baby needs it.
Practice your baby's new skills with him
- During your little one's awake period, practice his new skills . The more you help your baby master them, the sooner he'll be able to return to a stable sleep.
Sleep regressions in your baby usually occur at different stages of growth when his body and mind discover new skills. There are ages when it is common for your baby to experience this type of regression because he is still developing.
What are the most common ages at which your baby might experience a sleep regression?
4 month old baby
The 4-month sleep regression is undoubtedly the most talked about and the one that most babies experience. It can happen at 8 weeks or 5 months. At this age, your little one moves from newborn sleep to having more complete sleep cycles .
8 month old baby
The sleep crisis at this age can occur up to 10 months. At this stage, your baby makes a leap in his growth, both physically and cognitively: he learns to crawl, sit up, pull himself up, and absorbs language like a sponge. It is also a time when he is able to stay awake for longer periods and can make the transition from 3 to 2 naps .
12 month old baby
It's the least common sleep regression, but it can happen. At this age, most of your little one's naps become a big challenge for you. You'll notice that your little one's sleep windows are longer. This is because your baby's body is preparing to transition to a nap, but it's not completely ready for it yet.
18 month old baby
At this age, your baby's sleep crisis can be particularly difficult. Factors attributed to this regression include newfound independence, separation anxiety, and/or teething.
24 month old baby
Sleep regression, in this period, can be due to a variety of reasons. You see that their sleep windows are getting longer, you are potty training your little one, or a new brother or sister is on the way, etc. At this age, your baby might start having nightmares or night terrors.
During your baby's sleep regression, there will be some frustrating days and nights with less sleep than usual. To help you get through this stage, reach out to those around you. Remember that it's okay to ask for and accept help .
