As your baby enters its 8th month, you may experience another hiccup in your daily (and nightly) routines? Here’s how to survive the 8-month sleep regression.
If you’re experiencing the 8-month sleep regression, you might be feeling a bit defeated having probably tackled the 4 and 6-month regressions too. Don’t fret! Although it can seem like three steps back after you’ve taken two steps forward, these sleep regressions are normal.
What is the 8-Month Sleep Regression?
This period includes a temporary disruption in your baby’s sleeping patterns, usually displaying difficulty sleeping and an increase in waking in the middle of the night. Sometimes called the 9-month sleep regression, it usually occurs between months 7 and 10.
Signs of Sleep Regression
A few common signs of sleep regressions include:
- Refusing naps
- Regularly waking at night
- Not going to sleep at their regular bedtime
- Increased hunger
- More fussy than usual
- Close to or recently hit a major milestone like crawling, standing, walking or starting solids
What Causes the 8 Month Sleep Regression?
As with any other sleep regression period, your baby’s development is the cause and this phase rarely lasts longer than a few weeks. But, what exactly is causing this regression?
At the 8-month mark, your baby will likely be hitting some major milestones, from language development to crawling and pulling themselves along. Sleep patterns are also changing, and usually, an 8-month-old will need more awake time between periods of sleep than they did previously.
For a more in-depth look, here are some other common reasons why your baby might be having trouble falling asleep that hit around this age:
- Separation Anxiety
- Increased Mobility
- Teething
- Overstimulation
- Nighttime Talking
How to Survive the 8 Month Sleep Regression
As you can see from that list, some significant change is happening for your little one. Now, while impossible to control how your growing little one reacts to the growth and development, you can help ease its effects by preparing for inevitable sleep hurdles.
If you haven’t tried to sleep train, now could be an excellent time to start, laying a foundation for consistent sleep for toddler sleep patterns later on. Whatever method you decide on, though, a consistent bedtime routine is vital to reducing sleep disruptions like the 8-month sleep regression.
Now, for some other tips to consider:
- It’s hard for anybody to sleep in a room that isn’t dark and quiet, let alone a baby who’s only just getting used to the big world around them! Creating a calm atmosphere in your baby’s room can make a huge difference when it comes to bedtime.
- You don’t want to foster bad habits, but it’s completely okay to give extra snuggles and comfort. It’s also important to maintain some sense of normalcy to avoid developing sleep associations with things like nursing or rocking — which could be worsening the separation anxiety that’s keeping them up in the first place.
- Sleep regressions at any age can be difficult to manage as they often lead to parental sleep deprivation. This can cause you to be as cranky as your little one. Don’t be afraid to ask your friends and loved ones for help during this time, whether that means getting your partner to take over a feed or having a friend watch baby while you take a quick nap.
A great way to establish a new sleep training routine and help your baby fall asleep independently is with gently weighted Zen Sleepwear from Nested Bean. The Cuddle Effect of their sleepwear mimics your touch to help baby self soothe through wakeups, and can assist in creating more positive bedtime associations.
Learn more about Nested Bean’s weighted sleepwear today, as well as some more insight to surviving the 8-month sleep regression, and look forward to a more restful night’s sleep.
FAQs
Q: What is the 8-month sleep regression?
A: The 8-month sleep regression is a period where babies who previously slept well may start waking up frequently during the night, have difficulty falling asleep, or experience changes in their napping schedule.
Q: What causes the 8-month sleep regression?
A: The 8-month sleep regression is caused by a combination of factors, including physical milestones like crawling and standing, teething, and separation anxiety.
Q: How long does the 8-month sleep regression last?
A: The 8-month sleep regression typically lasts 2-6 weeks.
Q: What can I do to help my baby through the 8-month sleep regression?
A: Stick to a consistent bedtime routine, offer comfort and reassurance, and adjust your baby’s nap schedule if necessary.
Q: Should I try sleep training during the 8-month sleep regression?
A: It’s up to you and your parenting style. Some families find sleep training helpful during the 8-month sleep regression, while others prefer to ride it out without sleep training.
Q: How can I cope with the lack of sleep during the 8-month sleep regression?
A: Take naps when your baby does, ask for help from friends or family members, and remember that this is a temporary phase.
Q: Is the 8-month sleep regression a sign that I need to wean my baby from breastfeeding or formula?
A: No, the 8-month sleep regression is a normal developmental phase and not a sign that your baby needs to wean from breastfeeding or formula.
Q: Should I be worried if my baby is still experiencing sleep disturbances after the 8-month sleep regression ends?
A: If your baby’s sleep disturbances continue after the 8-month sleep regression ends, consult with your pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical issues.
2 comments
this is very informative blog for new moms who don’t know much about parenting my 6 year old girl has some symtoms which make me upset sometime
8 months sleep impairment? Not much drop in my opinion. Because during the day, the baby will make up for it. This should also be sleep regulation (My personal thoughts)
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