As your baby approaches their 8-month birthday, you may start to notice some changes in their sleep patterns. They may be waking up more frequently at night, resisting naps, or experiencing other disruptions to their sleep routine. These changes are known as the 8-month sleep regression, and they can be challenging for both parents and babies alike. In this article, we’ll explore what the 8-month sleep regression is, why it happens, and how you can manage it.
What is the 8-month sleep regression?
The 8-month sleep regression is a developmental phase that many babies go through around the age of 8 months. During this time, your baby’s sleep patterns may become disrupted, and they may experience more frequent night wakings, shorter naps, or difficulty falling asleep. The 8-month sleep regression typically lasts for a few weeks to a few months, depending on the child.
Why does the 8-month sleep regression happen?
The 8-month sleep regression is thought to be caused by a combination of developmental changes and environmental factors. At 8 months old, your baby is likely starting to become more mobile and independent, which can lead to increased anxiety and restlessness at night. Additionally, changes in your baby’s feeding and nap schedule, illness, teething, and other disruptions to their routine can also contribute to the 8-month sleep regression.
How can you manage the 8-month sleep regression?
Managing the 8-month sleep regression can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can try to help your baby sleep more soundly:
- Stick to a consistent routine: A consistent sleep routine can help your baby feel more secure and calm, which can make it easier for them to fall asleep and stay asleep. Establish a consistent bedtime and nap schedule, and stick to it as closely as possible.
- Create a calming sleep environment: Create a sleep environment that is quiet, cool, and dark, and consider using a white noise machine or other soothing sounds to help your baby relax.
- Offer comfort and reassurance: When your baby wakes up at night, offer them comfort and reassurance, but try not to pick them up or bring them into your bed unless necessary. Encourage self-soothing by giving them a pacifier or lovey, and allowing them to fall back asleep on their own.
- Consider sleep coaching: If your baby is still struggling to sleep despite your best efforts, consider working with a sleep consultant or trying a gentle sleep training method. Always consult with your paediatrician before attempting any sleep training method.
As a parent, it’s important to understand your baby’s changing sleep needs as they grow. For babies between 6-8 months old, their sleep routine will likely include three naps, with a total of 3.75 hours of daytime sleep and 10-12 hours of night-time sleep.
Here’s what you need to know to support your baby’s sleep during this stage.
Night-time sleep: At 6-8 months old, your baby will need between 10-12 hours of night-time sleep. This is an important time for their growth and development, so it’s important to establish a consistent bedtime routine and sleep environment.
Daytime sleep: Your baby will need 3.75 hours of daytime sleep during this stage, spread across three naps. The length of each nap should be between 1-1.5 hours. Encourage your baby to take their naps at consistent times each day to promote good sleep habits.
Wake times: Between each nap, your baby’s wake times should be between 1.5-3 hours. Plan activities and playtime around their naps, and be mindful of any signs of sleepiness such as rubbing their eyes or yawning.
Naps: At 6-8 months old, your baby will need three naps each day. These naps should be light (1-1.5 hours) and should take place at consistent times each day. Encourage your baby to take their naps in a quiet, dark and comfortable environment to promote good sleep habits.
So, babies between 6-8 months old need 10-12 hours of night-time sleep, 3.75 hours of daytime sleep spread across three naps, wake windows of 1.5-3 hours and naps of 1-1.5 hours each. By establishing a consistent sleep routine and providing a quiet, dark and comfortable sleep environment, you can support your baby’s sleep and development during this stage.
In conclusion, the 8-month sleep regression can be a challenging phase for both babies and parents, but it is a normal part of development. By sticking to a consistent routine, creating a calming sleep environment, offering comfort and reassurance, and considering sleep training if necessary, you can help your baby navigate this phase and develop healthy sleep habits for the future. Remember to take care of yourself as well, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your baby’s sleep or overall health.
