Sleep regression is a period of time during which a child who has previously been sleeping well begins to wake up frequently or have difficulty falling asleep. This can occur at various ages, but the 4-month, 8-month, 18-month, 2-year and 4-year sleep regressions are the most common. These regressions can be caused by a variety of factors such as developmental milestones, changes in the child's schedule or environment, or the introduction of a new skill (like crawling, walking, or talking).
During a sleep regression, parents may notice their child waking up frequently during the night, having trouble falling asleep, or waking up earlier than usual. They may also be more irritable or have a harder time napping during the day. These changes can be frustrating for both parents and children, but it's important to remember that sleep regression is a normal part of child development and typically resolves on its own.
It's important to keep your child's schedule as consistent as possible during this time, and to use positive sleep associations to help them fall asleep. Avoiding stimulating activities before bed and creating a calm and soothing bedtime routine can also be helpful.
