Many parents dread the well-known “4-month sleep regression,” but it’s essential to understand that this phase is not a regression at all. Instead, it’s a natural part of your baby’s development as their sleep patterns mature and transition to more adult-like cycles, encompassing all five stages of sleep.

What Causes the 4-Month Sleep Regression?

At around four months (sometimes even earlier!) babies undergo significant growth and developmental changes that can wreak havoc on your peaceful sleeper. Here’s what’s happening:

• Growth Spurts: Rapid physical growth can affect sleep patterns.
• Developmental Milestones: Babies may start rolling over, teething, or becoming more aware of their surroundings, which can lead to overstimulation.
• Environmental Changes: Adjustments such as parents returning to work, the introduction of new caregivers, or supplementing with formula can disrupt routines.

How Do I Get Through This Sleep Regression?

While this period can be challenging, consistency (yes, you have to be the tough one here) and patience are key. Here are 5 tips to help your baby (and you) get through it:

1. Establish/Maintain a Bedtime Routine: A consistent routine signals to your baby that bedtime is approaching. Routine builds trust and helps in learning. You can do this at an early age, by following and observing your baby’s sleep cues.

2. Expose Your Baby to Sunshine: Plenty of morning sunlight, outdoor time, and fresh air can be beneficial. Vitamin D from the sun helps regulate melatonin production and establish regular circadian rhythms. All of this is developing at this age, again, another reason for the sleep disruption.

3. Use A Sound Machine: Ensure the sound machine is loud enough to be effective. Many parents make the mistake of keeping it too low. Think of an airplane cabin, aim for a nice consistent hum that is plenty loud.

4. Follow the “Eat, Play, Sleep” Cycle: Feed your baby at the beginning of his wake cycle/window. This ensures he’s not fed right before sleep as he might grow to expect being fed to fall asleep.

5. Lay Baby Down Drowsy but Awake: Doing this allows your baby to put himself to sleep. He will learn and practice self-soothing skills. When he wakes overnight, he’ll get better and better at putting himself back to sleep. However, be mindful to not put your baby down too drowsy, as it can hinder his ability to learn to fall asleep independently.

 

How Long Does This Last?

Remember, this is a phase that will pass and you will get through this! Your baby relies on you to be a consistent and stable guide through this transition. By maintaining routines and providing a calm environment, you’ll help your baby adjust to their new sleep patterns and establish healthy sleep habits for the future.

With consistency and patience, most children return to a healthy sleep routine within a couple of weeks, though it can take longer (or less) for some. Each child is unique and may require a different amount of time to adjust. So please don’t compare your baby and where you’re at with anyone else.

Be patient and trust that your baby is growing and developing exactly as they should. This phase, challenging as it may be, is a sign of their progress towards becoming a well-rested, thriving child.

I NEED HELP!

I hear you! If you need help, you are in the right place. I would love to help you by creating a detailed, step-by-step sleep plan for you to follow so that you can promote healthy sleep habits within your home. Please message me and we’ll schedule a time to chat about your needs and sleep goals.