As a new parent, getting your baby to sleep through the night is often a top priority. However, just as you start to think you have a handle on your little one’s sleeping patterns, they hit the six-month mark, and suddenly, they start waking up more frequently during the night. This is a common phrase known as 6-month sleep regression, and it can be a frustrating time for both you and your baby. In this article, we’ll discuss what 6-month baby sleep regression is, why it happens, and what you can do to help your little one get through it. So, if you’re a parent struggling with a sleepless six-month-old, read on for a helpful guide.
What is Sleep Regression?
Sleep regression is a period where a baby who previously slept well suddenly starts to wake up more frequently during the night or has trouble falling asleep. This regression can happen at various ages throughout a baby’s first year of life, including at four months, eight months, and twelve months. It’s a normal and temporary phase of development and usually lasts for a few weeks to a few months.
Why Does 6-Month Sleep Regression Happen?
At around six months, your baby is going through a significant period of development. They may start to roll over, sit up, and crawl, which can affect their sleep patterns. Additionally, around six months, babies start to develop more regular sleep cycles, and they may have difficulty adjusting to these changes. This developmental phase can cause your baby to wake up more frequently during the night or have trouble falling asleep, leading to sleep regression.
How to Help Your Baby Through 6-Month Sleep Regression
While sleep regression can be a challenging time for parents, there are several things you can do to help your little one through sleep regression ages. Here are some tips to help you and your baby during this phase:
Stick to a Consistent Bedtime Routine
Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can help your baby feel more relaxed and secure, making it easier for them to fall asleep. Try to stick to the same bedtime routine every night, such as reading a story, singing a lullaby, or giving a warm bath.
Offer Comfort and Reassurance
When your baby wakes up during the night, try to offer comfort and reassurance without picking them up or feeding them. Patting their back or rubbing their tummy can be soothing and help them fall back asleep.
Consider Sleep Training
If your baby is having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, sleep training can be an effective way to help them learn how to soothe themselves to sleep. Talk to your paediatrician or a sleep specialist to determine the best sleep training method for your baby.
Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
Make sure your baby’s sleep environment is comfortable, dark, and quiet. Use blackout curtains to keep out any light, a white noise machine to block out any noise, and keep the temperature at a comfortable level.
Be Patient
Remember that sleep regression is a temporary phase and that it will pass. Be patient and consistent with your bedtime routine and sleep training, and your baby will soon get back into a healthy sleep pattern.
Closing Words
Many infants go through a 6-month sleep regression. While it can be frustrating for both you and your little one, the suggested steps you can take to help your baby get through this phase.
