Understanding Sleep Regressions

Sleep regressions can feel frustrating and exhausting for parents. Just when you think your baby is sleeping well, they suddenly start waking more frequently, fighting naps, or taking longer to settle. But why do sleep regressions happen, and what can you do to manage them?

In this blog, we'll explore what sleep regressions are, when they typically occur, and how to support your baby through them while keeping healthy sleep habits in place.

What Is a Sleep Regression?

A sleep regression is a temporary period where a baby or toddler’s sleep patterns change, often leading to more wake-ups, difficulty settling, or disrupted naps. These changes are usually linked to developmental milestones, growth spurts, and shifts in sleep needs.

The good news? Sleep regressions are normal and often a sign of progress, meaning your baby is learning a new skill or going through a period of rapid development.

During the first two years of life your baby will go through 5 sleep regressions around the 4 months, 8-10 months, 12 months, 15-18 months and 24 months. 

Common Ages for Sleep Regressions

While every child is different, sleep regressions often occur around the following ages:

4 Month

What happens? Your baby’s sleep cycles mature, shifting from newborn sleep patterns to lighter, more structured sleep.

What to do? This is a great time to introduce healthy sleep habits, like a consistent routine and settling strategies.

8-10 Months

What happens? Increased mobility, separation awareness, and nap transitions can disrupt sleep.

What to do? Offer comfort as needed, keep wake windows balanced, and provide extra opportunities for practice during awake time.

12 Months

What happens? Many toddlers try to drop their second nap too early, leading to overtiredness and disrupted nights.

What to do? Keep two naps until at least 14-15 months, and watch for overtiredness cues.

15-18 Months

What happens? A surge in independence, teething, and separation anxiety can lead to bedtime resistance and night waking.

What to do? Keep boundaries consistent while offering reassurance.

2 Years

What happens? Language development, nap resistance, and newfound independence may cause bedtime struggles.

What to do? Maintain a predictable routine, adjust wake windows as needed, and avoid overtiredness.

Not every baby will experience all of these regressions, and some may go through sleep disruptions at slightly different times.

How Long Do Sleep Regressions Last?

Most sleep regressions last between 1-4 weeks, depending on the cause and how sleep is managed during the transition. Consistency and patience are key in helping your baby adjust to new changes while maintaining good sleep habits.

How to Support Your Baby Through a Sleep Regression

If your baby is experiencing a sleep regression, here are some ways to help:

Stay Consistent – Stick to familiar nap and bedtime routines to provide a sense of security.

Adjust Wake Windows – Changes in sleep needs may mean your baby is ready for a slight tweak in their awake time.

Offer Comfort, But Set Boundaries – It’s okay to reassure your baby, but avoid creating new habits that may be hard to break later.

Encourage Independent Sleep When Possible – Give your baby the opportunity to self-settle before stepping in with extra support.

Practice New Skills During Awake Time – If your baby is learning to roll, crawl, or walk, give them plenty of time to practice during the day to reduce nighttime restlessness.

Be Patient – Regressions are temporary, and things will settle again with time.

When to Make Adjustments

Sometimes sleep regressions signal that your baby is ready for a change in their sleep routine. If your baby is waking frequently or struggling with naps, consider:

Adjusting wake windows – A little more or less awake time may help.

Reassessing nap schedules – If naps are becoming difficult, your baby may be ready for a transition.

Keeping bedtime consistent – Even with disrupted nights, maintaining a steady bedtime helps regulate sleep.

Still Need Help?

Sleep regressions can feel challenging, but they are a normal part of your baby’s development. With patience, consistency, and small adjustments, your baby’s sleep will settle again.

If you’re navigating a sleep regression and need support, know that you’re not alone - these phases pass, and better sleep is ahead.

Our team of Sleep Consultants can help you in a few different ways.

For parents struggling with the effects of a regression and not sure how to get back on track, our Phone Consult + Two Week Support option is for you.

Do you think you have it cased for the most part but just have a couple of questions? Check our our 30min Quick Chat

We also have a comprehensive Sleep Guides that are jam-packed and provide you with all of the information needed to navigate your little ones sleep and set up a great routine.

Until next time,

The Sleepy Little Bubs Team x