Is your previously good, or even okay, sleeper suddenly waking up in the middle of the night? Or do they cry and make a fuss when you try to put them down at their regular nap time? Then chances are that they might be experiencing sleep regression.
Proper sleep is vital for our health, especially for growing children. During sleep, the body releases growth hormones that help repair and grow tissues. It also enhances memory consolidation, attention span, cognitive functioning, etc. However, sleep regression temporarily disrupts a child’s sleeping patterns, leaving them and their parents perplexed and weary.
This guest post will provide a comprehensive guide to the various ages and stages of sleep regression during the first few years. We’ll also cover the unique factors contributing to sleep regressions at each stage.
Understanding Sleep Regression
Sleep regression is a term used to describe temporary disruptions or changes in a baby or toddler’s established sleeping patterns. These regressions can occur during the first few years of a child’s life and last for some time.
Sleep regression is often characterized by signs such as experiencing difficulty falling asleep, increased fussiness, and frequently waking up in the middle of the night. Children often also resist bedtime or naps or take shorter naps. They can even skip them entirely.
What Causes Sleep Regression?
Although there is limited research on why sleep regression occurs, older studies suggest that it might occur when a child’s body or brain undergoes significant changes. For example, a 2000s case report found that sleep regressions generally occur during developmental changes in the brain between 2 and 21 months of age. This includes growth spurts, cognitive advancements, as well as the acquisition of new skills.
Here are some reasons usually associated with the development of sleep regression in early childhood.
- Developmental milestones. These include walking, speaking, being potty trained, etc.
- Development of separation anxiety
- When children experience a need for independence.
- Any factors that bring changes to their lives, such as welcoming a sibling or sleeping in a new place.
These factors can temporarily disrupt existing sleep patterns, causing the child to struggle with falling asleep or experience fragmented sleep.
New Born Sleep Regression (0-4 Months)
Newborns experience much shorter sleeping cycles than other age groups, lasting around half an hour to three hours. Additionally, most of their sleep occurs in REM (rapid eye movement sleep), which plays a pivotal role in brain development. This also means that they wake up frequently during the night and have trouble establishing a consistent sleep routine.
Sleep regressions commonly occur during this stage at 4-6 weeks, coinciding with developmental milestones like rolling over and increased social interaction. Another common cause is the development of colic or digestive issues, and increased hunger.
The 4th Month Regression
This is a notable and challenging stage in early childhood development that marks a shift in babies’ sleeping patterns. That’s because, during the 4th month of regression, babies undergo profound psychological and neurological changes.
Before this, children have shorter sleep cycles and frequently wake up during the night. However, at this stage, their sleep transition from this newborn state to a more mature pattern resembling adult sleep. That being said, this shift can lead to increased awakening between sleep cycles.
Infancy Sleep Regression (6-12 Months)
During the 6th month mark, children experience another period of regression. However, this one doesn’t last a very long time. In fact, many argue that sleep disturbances during this time don’t last long enough to qualify as a sleep regression period.
The main reason typically associated with this sleep regression stage is increased hunger from growth spurts. Children at this age require more frequent feedings, including at night, which leads to this regression. Other reasons include discomfort and pain from teething and separation anxiety.
Toddler Sleep Regression Period (1-3 Years)
Toddlers usually experience many changes, so it’s not surprising that they undergo a sleep regression period during these years. One of the biggest reasons why this regression occurs is due to changes in their circadian rhythms. Though humans begin establishing a sleep-wake cycle after four months of age, rapid eye movements and non-rapid eye movement changes happen during the first five years. As a result, toddlers might start fussing about their usual bedtime.
Another reason why toddlers undergo sleep regression can be their desire for independence. Children this age want to explore the world around them and learn, which is why they want to stay awake. They might also experience it due to separation anxiety.
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About the Author
Dr. Jessica L. is a developmental psychologist with over 15 years of experience in the field. She is passionate about using her research to help parents understand and support children’s development. That’s why she’s a frequent contributor to parenting magazines and websites.
