If your baby was sleeping well and suddenly isn’t, you’re not alone. And you’re not doing anything wrong. Sleep regressions are a normal part of infant development, even though they can feel exhausting and frustrating in the moment.
Here’s what parents should know about sleep regressions and how to get through them.
A sleep regression usually happens when a baby is going through a developmental leap. New skills like rolling, crawling, standing or changes in sleep cycles can temporarily disrupt sleep. Common ages include around 4 months, 6–8 months and again near the one-year mark, though every baby is different.
What Parents Can Do
While you can’t stop a sleep regression from happening, a few steady habits can help everyone get through it:
- Stick to a familiar routine. A consistent bedtime routine signals to your baby that it’s time to sleep, even if night wakings increase for a while.
- Offer comfort without overcorrecting. It’s okay to soothe your baby but try not to introduce habits you don’t want to maintain long-term.
- Watch wake windows. Overtired babies often don’t sleep as well. Paying attention to age-appropriate awake times can help.
- Give it time. Most sleep regressions last days to a few weeks before sleep begins to improve again as baby adjusts to new skills.
Don’t Blame Yourself
Sleep regressions aren’t caused by “bad habits” or something you did wrong. Babies aren’t manipulating or testing boundaries. They’re growing, learning and adjusting to the world around them.
Sleep regressions can take a real toll on parents and caregivers. Interrupted sleep, night wakings and long days can leave you feeling drained physically and emotionally. While this phase is temporary, your well-being matters right now.
During sleep regressions, focus on what’s possible, not perfection. That might mean resting when your baby naps, sharing nighttime responsibilities when you can or letting go of nonessential tasks for a short time. Even small moments of rest, a short nap, an earlier bedtime or a quiet break, can help restore energy.
If exhaustion starts to feel overwhelming, reach out for help. Lean on a partner, family member or trusted friend, and don’t hesitate to talk with your doctor about what you’re experiencing. Caring for yourself isn’t a luxury. It helps you care for your baby through this season.
When to Check with Your Pediatrician
If sleep changes are paired with feeding issues, poor weight gain, illness or if something just doesn’t feel right, your pediatrician can help you decide what’s normal and what needs attention. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
More Helpful Resources for New Parents
If you’re navigating sleep changes or the many other questions that come with caring for a baby, our free What Now? guide offers practical information and reassurance for the early months of parenthood.
