Baby Sleep
Baby Sleep Regressions: Ages, Causes, and Survival Tips
Why your baby suddenly won’t sleep, how long regressions last, and parent-tested tips to handle night wakings, short naps, and sleep schedule changes.
When a sleeping baby suddenly won’t sleep
Every parent dreads it: your baby who was finally sleeping longer stretches is suddenly waking up crying all night. This sudden change is called a sleep regression. They’re common, tied to developmental leaps, and—most importantly—temporary.
What is a sleep regression?
A baby sleep regression is a period when a baby or toddler who was sleeping well suddenly has trouble falling asleep, frequent night wakings, shorter naps, or early morning wake-ups. They’re not permanent sleep problems—they signal brain and body growth, teething, or big routine shifts.
Baby sleep regression ages and signs
- 4 months: Sleep cycles mature—baby now wakes fully between cycles.
- 6 months: Growth spurt + rolling practice = extra night feedings.
- 8–10 months: Crawling, pulling up, and separation anxiety peak.
- 12 months: Walking and dropping naps lead to bedtime battles.
- 18 months: Toddler independence, teething, and nap refusal.
- 24 months: Language explosion, fears, and boundary-testing disrupt sleep.
Why sleep regressions happen
- Developmental milestones: Sitting, crawling, walking, talking.
- Teething pain: Common culprit for night crying.
- Growth spurts: Babies wake hungry, needing extra feeds.
- Separation anxiety: Strongest around 8–10 months and 18 months.
- Routine disruption: Travel, illness, nap transitions, or daycare changes.
How to handle regressions
- Keep bedtime routines predictable—bath, book, feed, bed.
- Offer comfort, but avoid creating new long-term habits like rocking to sleep.
- Use white noise, blackout curtains, and safe sleep sacks.
- Balance daytime naps—too few or too many cause night waking.
Avoid these pitfalls
- Don’t assume your baby “forgot” how to sleep—regressions are temporary.
- Don’t cut naps to “make them tired”—it usually backfires.
- Don’t add unsafe sleep props (pillows, weighted blankets).
Survival tips from real parents
- Tag-team with your partner—take shifts during night wakings.
- Use contact naps or carrier naps during the day if needed.
- Plan early bedtime when naps are rough—overtired babies fight sleep harder.
- Remember: regressions usually last 2–6 weeks.
Progress, not perfection
Baby sleep isn’t a straight line. Some nights will be hard, and regressions can feel endless, but every stage passes. Your job is to stay consistent, calm, and flexible.
FAQs About Sleep Regressions
How long does a baby sleep regression last?
Most last 2–6 weeks, though some pass faster with consistent routines.
Why won’t my baby sleep through the night anymore?
Developmental changes, teething, or growth spurts can trigger extra night waking.
Do breastfed babies have more regressions?
Breastfed babies may wake more often for feeds, but regressions affect all babies.
Can I do sleep training during a regression?
It’s best to wait until the regression passes; training is more effective when sleep is stable.
Why is my baby crying at night suddenly?
Common causes include teething, separation anxiety, or hitting a new milestone.
Are toddler sleep regressions real?
Yes—around 18–24 months many toddlers resist bedtime or wake at night.
This content is for education only, not medical advice. Always follow safe sleep guidelines and consult your pediatrician for your child’s unique needs.