Babies tend to disturb their sleep schedule often. The intervals in their sleep and hunger especially in the night go for a toss most of the time. Sleep regression in babies and toddlers is very common. It is a term used to describe a baby who slept well previously but is suffering issues falling asleep lately. The pattern of sleep is disturbed resulting in sleep regression. It is believed by new parents that the disturbed pattern may remain for quite some time.

But this isn’t the case. Parents get startled when their super sleeper baby changes into a quite awake kind of a toddler. This sleep regression phase of a baby is quite disturbing for the parents as the baby keeps on crying when awake and they do not understand what the issue is. 

Understanding Sleep Regression

Sleep regression is a normal part of a child’s development and typically occurs around certain age milestones. The most common periods for it to happen are at 4 months, 6 months, 9 months, and 18 months. During these times, a baby’s sleep patterns can be disrupted due to various factors, including growth spurts, teething, changes in routine, and developmental milestones.

10 Tips for Managing Sleep Regression:

1. Maintain a Consistent Routine

Consistency is key when dealing with sleep regression. Stick to a regular bedtime routine to help signal to your child that it’s time for sleep. It will send signals to the child’s brain and he/she will act accordingly. This may include activities like reading a book, singing a lullaby, or giving a warm bath.  

2. Adjust Nap Times

Sometimes, it can be exacerbated by irregular nap schedules. Ensure your baby is getting an appropriate amount of daytime sleep, but avoid overly long naps that may interfere with nighttime sleep. The sleep schedule must be adjusted as per the sleep cycle of the baby. If the toddler wants to sleep before bedtime, try to involve them in some activities, so they forget about the sleep and will have a sound sleep later in the night. 

3. Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment

Make sure your baby’s sleep environment is conducive to restful sleep. This includes a comfortable mattress, appropriate room temperature, and a soothing, darkened room. External forces which can be uncomfortable for the baby need to be controlled. Such small disturbances create a nuisance in their sleep schedule. 

4. Offer Comfort and Reassurance

During sleep regression, your baby may wake up crying or feeling anxious. Provide comfort and reassurance by patting, rocking, or gently soothing them back to sleep without picking them up if possible. Picking them up will make them fully awake and will keep on crying. 

5. Avoid Sleep Associations

Be cautious not to create sleep associations that may hinder your child’s ability to self-soothe. For example, if your baby relies on being rocked to sleep, they may struggle to fall back asleep independently when they wake during a sleep regression. 

6. Stay Calm and Patient

Sleep regression can be frustrating, but it’s crucial to remain calm and patient. Babies can sense stress, so keeping a soothing demeanor can help reassure them.

7. Monitor Diet and Teething

Sometimes, this is linked to dietary changes or teething discomfort. Pay attention to your baby’s feeding schedule and offer teething relief when needed.

8. Offer a Transitional Object

Introducing a comforting object like a soft toy or a blanket can provide your child with a sense of security and comfort. 

9. Maintain Daylight Exposure

Exposure to natural light during the day can help regulate your baby’s circadian rhythm, making it easier for them to distinguish between day and night. 

10. Consider Professional Help

If sleep regression persists, it may be wise to consult a pediatrician or a sleep specialist for guidance and advice tailored to your child’s specific needs.

Monitoring Signs of Sleep Regression

Parents should keep an eye out for the following signs of sleep regression:

• Frequent nighttime awakenings.
• Difficulty falling asleep at bedtime.
• Shortened naps or refusing to nap.
• Increased fussiness during the bedtime routine.
• Changes in appetite.

When to Consult a Doctor

While sleep regression is a common phase in a child’s development, there are instances where consulting a doctor is advisable. You should consider contacting a healthcare professional if:

1. Sleep regression lasts longer than a few weeks.
2. Your baby’s sleep disruption is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as fever or illness.
3. Your child’s sleep issues result in extreme sleep deprivation for both the baby and the parents.
4. You have tried multiple strategies without improvement.

Doctor’s Advice for How to Deal with it:

When parents consult a doctor about their child’s sleep regression, they can expect to receive guidance that may include:

1. A thorough evaluation of the child’s health to rule out any underlying medical issues.
2. Recommendations for establishing a consistent sleep routine.
3. Suggestions for managing any discomfort related to teething or illness.
4. Advice on creating a safe and comfortable sleep environment.
5. Guidance on age-appropriate sleep expectations for the child.

Conclusion:

Dealing with sleep regression in babies and toddlers can be a challenging phase for parents. However, with patience, consistency, and the right strategies, this phase can be managed effectively. Monitoring signs of it, knowing when to seek medical advice, and following a doctor’s recommendations can help parents navigate this challenging but temporary period in their child’s sleep development.

At times parents get stressed out, in no way to know what is to be done. It leaves them in panic and chaos. Remember that this is a normal part of a child’s growth, and with the right support, both parents and children can emerge from it well-rested and ready to face each new day.