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4-Month Sleep Regression: Tips to Help Your Baby Sleep Better
Lacy Hess • January 5, 2025
Understanding the Challenges of the 4-Month Sleep Regression and Solutions for Restful Nights
Understanding and Managing the 4-Month Sleep Regression
As a new mom, I distinctly recall being cautioned about the infamous “4-month sleep regression.” While my first child sailed through this stage without a hiccup, my second child faced a few challenges.
This experience taught me an essential lesson: every child is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution for navigating the “4-month sleep regression.” However, understanding the factors that contribute to sleep struggles at this stage can provide valuable insights and help you and your baby on the path to better sleep.
What is the 4-Month Sleep Regression?
The term “4-month sleep regression” refers to a period when a baby’s sleep patterns may change, resulting in more frequent nighttime awakenings or shorter naps. This phase is often linked to significant developmental milestones, and while not every baby experiences it, understanding its potential causes can be reassuring.
Key Factors Contributing to the 4-Month Sleep Regression
1. Sleep Cycle Changes
Between 4 and 6 months of age, babies transition from the two stages of sleep typical in newborns to the five stages of sleep found in adults. This shift results in brief moments of wakefulness before entering REM sleep. If a baby hasn’t yet mastered self-settling techniques, these awakenings may lead to more frequent calls for parental assistance overnight.
2. Swaddling Changes
Around this age, many babies begin rolling over, signaling the need to transition away from swaddling for safety reasons. If swaddling has been a consistent sleep aid, adjusting to sleep without it can be challenging for some babies. This change may temporarily impact their ability to settle and stay asleep.
3. Growth Spurts
Babies experience growth spurts during this developmental stage, often leading to increased hunger. This can result in more frequent nighttime feedings if they are not getting enough ounces of breastmilk or formula during the daytime hours.
4. Increased Awareness
At 4 months, babies become more aware of their surroundings and develop new skills. They may use their voices to experiment with sounds and discover how their actions elicit responses from their parents. An overstimulating sleep environment can make it harder for babies to settle, and some may use crying as a way to gain attention if they associate it with a comforting response.
Tips and Solutions for Managing the 4-Month Sleep Regression
• Ensure Full Feedings: Make sure your baby receives adequate nourishment during the day to reduce nighttime hunger. If your baby is suddenly waking overnight, consider increasing the number of ounces during the day to ensure full feeds and a full belly for bedtime.
• Use White Noise: Continuous, low, rumbly sounds can help prevent overstimulation and mask household noises that may distract your baby and disrupt sleep.
• Spend Time Outdoors: Natural light exposure during the day can help reinforce a healthy day-night rhythm for your baby.
•
Teach Your Baby Sleep Independence: Gradually teach your baby how to settle themselves back to sleep in the middle of the night without relying on you to help them. Check out my
Top 3 Sleep Tips: Newborn - 1 Year resource for different ways to approach sleep training at this age.
• Transition Safely from Swaddling: If your baby has started rolling, swaddling is no longer a safe option. Consider using a sleep sack. It can provide comfort for your baby while still allowing for safe movement.
Why Addressing the 4-Month Sleep Regression is Crucial
Effectively managing the 4-month sleep regression can lay the groundwork for healthy long-term sleep habits. When this regression arises, consider the causes mentioned above and adjust as needed. By staying consistent with the recommended solutions—and avoiding the habits of rocking your baby to sleep, feeding your baby to sleep, or bringing your baby into bed—you'll help your baby achieve longer stretches of rest more quickly resulting in a more well-rested and happier household.
Need Extra Help?
If you’re navigating the challenges of the “4-month sleep regression” but don't know where to start? I’m here to help! Every family’s situation is unique, but together, we can find solutions that work for you and your little one.
Schedule your free consultation here
or send me an email at lacyslullabies@gmail.com
with any questions you have. Let’s work together to bring sleep back to your home!
Lacy's Lullabies - Pediatric Sleep Consultant
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