Sleep Regression Ages: What to Expect

Has your baby hit the sleep regression phase? Here’s what you need to know.

One of the toughest aspects of parenting is getting your child to sleep, especially during infancy. But eventually, you start to get into a rhythm; you know your baby’s wake windows, and they’ve developed a consistent sleep pattern.

Then, suddenly, everything changes. Your baby begins waking up in the middle of the night. Maybe they wake up again an hour or two later. And this happens night after night.

That’s when you realize your baby is going through a sleep regression.

Sleep regressions can occur at various stages in a child’s development. The good news is, they’re temporary, but understanding how to handle them is key. Should you try sleep training? Here’s everything you need to know about sleep regression ages, signs of regression, and how to get your baby back to sleep.

What Is Sleep Regression?

According to pediatric sleep consultant and Dream Baby Sleep founder Carolynne J. Harvey, “Sleep regression happens when a baby or child who has previously slept well suddenly experiences poor sleep or frequent nighttime awakenings, usually due to significant developmental milestones.”

While sleep regressions can be a physical and mental challenge for the whole family, they’re actually a sign of growth and progress in your baby’s development. Dr. Harvey Karp, pediatrician and founder of Happiest Baby, explains, “Often, these sleep disruptions coincide with major physical or intellectual developments.”

How Do I Know If My Baby Is Going Through a Sleep Regression?

Have you noticed a change in your baby’s sleep quality? Is it just a few rough nights, or is sleep truly becoming more difficult? “It’s easy to see when a child’s sleep quality drops,” says Dr. Karp. “They go from waking up zero times per night to waking up once, then maybe twice or more.”

Dr. Karp also explains that in the first few years, a baby’s sleep quality gradually improves. “This doesn’t mean they sleep longer, but they begin to sleep for longer stretches at a time, and the number of nighttime awakenings decreases.”

Common Sleep Regression Ages

If your baby’s sleep is suddenly disrupted at certain age milestones, you may wonder if it’s related to a natural sleep regression. Dr. Karp says sleep regressions commonly occur around 4 months, 8-9 months, 12 months, and 18-24 months.

If your child’s sleep patterns change drastically during these ages and your efforts to improve it don’t seem to work, it might be time to consult your pediatrician. This way, you can determine the best action plan for your baby and family.

Regardless of your baby’s age or when the sleep regression occurs, Harvey emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent bedtime routine. “Keep the nighttime routine consistent, avoid relying on sleep crutches, and you’ll get through this phase.”

4 Months

In the first few months of life, parents may feel completely exhausted, and the 4-month sleep regression can make things even more challenging. According to Dr. Karp, this regression happens because your baby suddenly begins waking up and seeking attention.

At this age, brief wake-ups are common. Dr. Karp says, “It’s not unusual for a baby to wake up three to four times during the night. They’ll lift their head, cry, and seek the comfort of their favorite person.”

This could be a sign of separation anxiety, where your baby may need extra comfort from mom or dad.

8 Months

By 8 months, babies may experience sleep regression as they begin to develop new skills, such as crawling or pulling themselves to stand. Dr. Karp explains, “While this is exciting on many levels, it can disrupt sleep. They get so excited that they practice these new skills in the middle of the night!”

Teething or illness, like a cold, can also affect sleep. “When they enter light sleep, they may have stuffy noses or sore gums, which can temporarily interfere with their sleep habits,” Dr. Karp says.

12 Months

Dr. Karp notes, “At 12 months, sleep regression typically occurs as toddlers experience developmental milestones, like teething or learning a major new skill such as standing or walking. Energetic toddlers might resist sleep because they don’t want to stop moving, learning, and exploring.” While this is an exciting time, newfound independence can lead to stubborn behaviors, especially around bedtime.

If this happens, Dr. Karp suggests extra effort in making your child feel safe, secure, and loved before bed. “After dimming the lights, turn on soft, soothing white noise, and read a few stories. This will ensure the last 15 minutes before lights out are predictable.”

Doctors also recommend snuggling up with your child in a dark room with white noise on, engaging in “bedtime sweet talk.” Dr. Karp advises, “Speak in a calm, soothing tone, recounting the fun things your child did during the day, and talk about exciting plans for the next day. Bedtime sweet talk can significantly boost your toddler’s confidence, helping them settle down and feel cozy, so they’re ready for the next day. Plus, it makes bedtime something to look forward to, rather than a time for tantrums.”

Final Thoughts

Sleep regressions are a normal part of your baby’s growth and development. While they can be exhausting for both parents and babies, they usually pass with time. Stay consistent with your routines, support your child through their developmental leaps, and remember that these phases won’t last forever. By maintaining a steady bedtime routine and offering reassurance, you’ll help your baby navigate these milestones—and you’ll all come out stronger on the other side!