Surviving Sleep Regressions: Tips and Tricks for Helping Your Newborn Sleep Better
Sleep regressions are a common and frustrating phenomenon that many parents of newborns experience. A sleep regression is a period of time when a baby who previously slept well suddenly starts waking up more often, having trouble falling asleep, or experiencing disrupted sleep. These regressions can happen at various ages, but they are most common at 4 months, 8 months, and 12 months old.
So, why do sleep regressions happen? There are a few possible reasons. One is that the baby is going through a developmental leap, and their brain is processing new skills or abilities. Another reason could be that the baby is experiencing discomfort or pain, such as from teething or illness. Finally, sleep regressions can be triggered by changes in the baby's routine or environment, such as a move to a new house or starting daycare.
No matter the cause, sleep regressions can be tough for parents to handle. But there are ways to help your baby through this difficult period.
Stick to a consistent routine. One of the best things you can do to help your baby through a sleep regression is to maintain a consistent routine. Keep bedtime and naptime at the same time each day, and follow the same sequence of activities leading up to sleep. This can help your baby feel more secure and confident in their sleep environment.
Offer comfort and reassurance. During a sleep regression, your baby may need extra comfort and reassurance from you. Try to respond to their cries quickly, and offer soothing touches or a comforting voice. But try multiple ways to sooth your infant before jumping straight to nursing or picking them up! Often times, the support they need in a sleep regression, looks different than the help they have needed in the past getting back to sleep. By being responsive, this help your baby feel safe and secure, even if they're having trouble sleeping.
Consider sleep training. If your baby's sleep regression is lasting longer than a few weeks and is seriously impacting their sleep (and yours!), it may be time to consider sleep training. There are many different methods of sleep training, so it's important to do your research and find a method that feels comfortable and appropriate for your family.
Don't give up! Remember that sleep regressions are temporary, and your baby will eventually return to their normal sleep patterns. It can be tough to get through, but with patience and perseverance, you can help your baby through this challenging period.
To sum up, sleep regressions are a common and challenging experience for many parents of newborns. By maintaining a consistent routine, offering comfort and reassurance, considering sleep training, and persevering through the tough times, you can help your baby navigate this difficult period and establish healthy sleep habits for the future.