Surviving the four-month sleep regression
A Guide for Exhausted Parents
The cuddles, the smiles, and those precious moments of watching your little one sleep, aren’t they just the best. But just when you thought you had mastered the art of baby sleep, along comes the infamous 4-month sleep regression. Suddenly you’re experiencing more night wakings, short naps and fussiness. What I hear a lot from parents is that they feel their little one is ‘fighting sleep’. If you’re experiencing this, read along!
Take a deep breath, because I’m here to help! In this blog post, I'll walk you through what the four-month sleep regression is, why it happens, and I’ll offer some hot tips to help you survive this trying time.
Understanding the Four-Month Sleep Regression:
The four-month sleep regression is a common phenomenon that many parents face. It typically occurs when your baby is around three to four months old and can last anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months. During this regression, your baby's sleep patterns become disrupted, and they may suddenly have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep through the night.
Why Does it Happen?
At around four months, your little one's sleep cycles undergo a significant change, transitioning from the newborn's deep sleep to a more adult-like sleep pattern. As a result, they become more aware of their surroundings and experience lighter sleep. They will be easier to wake and it makes it harder for them to settle.
Their sleep cycles change from a predominantly deep sleep pattern, to a more mature sleep pattern resembling that of adults.
A newborn has 2 phases of sleep: Active or light sleep (REM sleep) and quiet sleep (NREM sleep).
During the 4 month sleep regression, these sleep cycles mature in to more mature sleep cycles. They will now have 4 stages of sleep, instead of just two, spending more time in REM sleep (active/light sleep) which means more frequent wakings.
This new development actually changes the way your baby sleeps. That’s why I like to call it a PROgression instead of a regression. They’re waking because of this developmental growth spurt.
What are the signs of baby going through the four month sleep regression?
The four-month sleep regression can manifest through various signs and behaviors in babies. Here are some common indicators that your baby may be experiencing this phase:
Frequent night wakings: Your baby, who previously slept longer stretches during the night, may start waking up more frequently. They might require assistance to fall back asleep, whereas before they were able to self-soothe.
Difficulty settling down: It may become more challenging for your baby to settle down and fall asleep, whether it's for naps or bedtime. They may appear restless, fussy, or have trouble transitioning into sleep. It seems like your baby is ‘fighting sleep’.
Increased daytime napping challenges: The regression can affect daytime naps as well. Your baby may struggle to take regular, restful naps or experience shorter sleep periods during the day.
Changes in sleep patterns: Previously established sleep patterns may become disrupted. Your baby's sleep cycles may shift, leading to more frequent arousals or shorter sleep cycles.
Increased clinginess or need for comfort: Your baby may seek more comfort and closeness during this phase. They may want more physical contact, such as being held, rocked, or cuddled, as they find reassurance in your presence.
Heightened irritability: The sleep regression can contribute to increased fussiness and irritability in babies. They may be more easily frustrated or have mood swings due to disrupted sleep patterns.
Will every baby go through the 4 month sleep regression?
The four-month sleep regression is a permanent change in a baby’s sleep architecture. This change will happen for every baby, but not every baby will experience huge sleep disruptions. This depends on temperament and their ability to self settle.
“Recognize that this regression is a normal phase of your baby’s development and that it will eventually pass. ”
Tips for Surviving the Four-Month Sleep Regression:
Adjust your expectations:
Recognize that this regression is a normal phase of your baby's development and that it will eventually pass. Adjust your expectations and embrace the temporary changes in sleep.
Encourage daytime naps:
Ensure that your baby is well-rested during the day by offering regular opportunities for napping. Overtiredness can cause more sleep difficulties at night.
Keep an eye on your little one’s awake time:
As they’re growing, they will be able to stay awake for longer periods during the day. Increased awake time during the day will help build sleep pressure going into the night.
Encourage playtime:
As your baby's mind develops, they become more curious and alert. Their eagerness to explore can make it challenging for them to unwind and fall asleep. Providing enough playtime and connection during the day will help them settle down at night.
Establish a consistent bedtime routine:
Create a calming routine before bed to signal to your baby that it's time to wind down and make the transition to sleep. This can include activities such as a warm bath, gentle massage, reading a story, or singing a lullaby.
Create a sleep-friendly environment:
Optimize your baby's sleep environment by making sure the room is dark, and at a comfortable temperature. Consider using white noise machines or blackout curtains to promote better sleep.
Encourage self-settling:
Help your baby develop self-settling skills by giving them opportunities to fall asleep on their own. This may involve gently placing them in their crib when drowsy but still awake, allowing them to learn how to settle themselves. You can start by practicing once a day. If this causes the nap to be on the shorter side, don’t panic. You can assist them to sleep at the next scheduled nap.
Seek support:
Remember that you are not alone in this journey. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups for advice, empathy, and understanding. Talking to other parents who have been through the same experience can provide a great deal of comfort.
How long does this sleep regression last?
The duration of the four-month sleep regression can vary from baby to baby. For some babies, the regression may last a few weeks, while for others, it can persist for a month or even longer. Each baby's sleep patterns and developmental progression are unique, so there is no fixed timeline for this phase.
It's important to remember that the four-month sleep regression is a temporary phase in a baby's development. As their sleep patterns adjust and their brains continue to mature, they will eventually settle into a more predictable sleep routine.
During this period, it's helpful to be patient, provide a consistent sleep environment, and offer comfort to your baby when needed. Implementing gentle sleep strategies and establishing healthy sleep habits can also assist in transitioning through this phase.
If you have concerns about your baby's sleep or if the regression persists for an extended period, it's always advisable to consult with a sleep professional. The 1:1 consults at Settle for Sleep are great for tackling a progression like this.
I will give you a structured approach to navigate the sleep difficulties and empower you with strategies to respond to your baby's needs while gradually helping them develop independent sleep skills!
