Sleep Progression
Sleep Regression or Sleep Progression? Here’s what you need to know …
Sleep regression, in the simplest terms, is a period when a child (with relatively consistent sleep) suddenly starts waking up at night and experiences poor/fragmented sleep.
I don’t love the term regression as it indicates that something is wrong or going backward. Sleep progression is a more positive and accurate term because these periods occur due to normal developmental changes. Your baby is learning new skills, their brain is changing and they are thriving—and these are all good things!
When do they occur?
Sleep progressions often occur alongside developmental changes. When your baby hits milestones in their growth, it is likely their sleep will also be affected as they begin learning and processing so much about their new world.
Sleep progressions most commonly occur at:
4mo
6mo
8-10mo
12mo
18mo
24mo
What are the tell-tale signs?
Every baby experiences the progression differently, but the common signs are:
Disrupted sleep (naps and/or overnight)
Fussier and a little cranky (aren’t we all when we’re not sleeping well?!)
Prefer to be constantly held
Increased hunger due to growth spurts
What to do?
Continue with your normal routine as much as possible
Have your baby practice the new skills they are learning during the day so that they don’t wake up wanting to practice
Feed as much as needed
lots of 1:1 connection time
Make sure the room is dark and cool for an optimal sleep environment
Having compassion and grace for ourselves during this difficult time is so important. While it is normal, it is definitely not easy. Consistency will be your superpower during this time and hold on to the knowledge it will pass.
Sleep progressions can be a good time to practice some independent sleep skills if that is a goal of yours. But you can also do absolutely nothing and sleep WILL improve over time.
For a more detailed guide to navigating the 4 months sleep PROgression, my newborn sleep course will cover this topic and many others to help you support your baby’s sleep, optimize your own rest and create good sleep hygiene for the entire family.