How to Survive the 4 Month Regression
Has your baby gone from having great sleep stretches overnight to all of a sudden waking up every 60-90 minutes needing support? If this sounds familiar and your baby is between 12-20 weeks old, then you could be experiencing the dreaded 4 month regression.
What exactly is the 4 month regression?
The 4-month regression is a notorious phase in a baby's development that can leave parents feeling exhausted and overwhelmed.
Around this age, babies undergo significant neurological and developmental changes. Their sleep patterns become more adult-like, going from two sleep cycles to five. This can lead to frequent waking during the night, shorter naps, and increased fussiness during the day.
It's important to remember that this phase is a sign of your baby's healthy development and with the proper tools, families can survive – and even thrive – during this challenging time!
What are the signs of the 4 month regression?
Shortened naps (20-45 minutes)
Increased fussiness
Unable to put baby down awake, or even asleep sometimes; baby prefers to sleep in your arms or carrier
Needing to be rocked, bounced or fed to sleep
Frequent night wakings – every hour of couple of hours
How to navigate the 4 month regression
Below are some key steps to help you get through this regression:
1. Establish Consistent Routines
One of the most effective ways to navigate the 4-month regression is by establishing a consistent routine for you and your baby. Consistency provides predictability, which can help soothe your baby and encourage better sleep habits. Setting a regular daily wake time, sticking to an age-appropriate nap and feeding schedule, and implementing a calm bedtime and wake up routine can support you through the regression.
(To help you establish a better routine for your baby, be sure to check out our sample schedules here.)
2. Encourage Self-Soothing
During the 4-month regression, babies may become more dependent on external soothing techniques, such as rocking or nursing, to fall asleep. While these methods may provide temporary relief, they can also perpetuate long term sleep associations that make it difficult for your baby to self-soothe. Encourage your baby to practice building independent sleep skills by putting them into the crib 100% awake, 100% of the time.
3. Evaluate the Use of The Pacifier
Does your baby use a pacifier? Are they able to reinsert the pacifier when it falls out? While a pacifier initially helps soothe babies, reliance on the pacifier throughout the night can become problematic. As babies enter deeper stages of sleep around 4 months, they may inadvertently lose the pacifier, leading to frequent awakenings as they search for it or cry for assistance. This cycle can interfere with the establishment of longer, uninterrupted sleep periods essential for their development.
You can either drop the pacifier before it becomes an issue at night, or practice having your baby grab the pacifier during playtime. Encourage them to bring it to their mouth by putting it in their hand and guiding it to their mouth.
4. Create a Sleep-Conducive Environment
The sleep environment plays a crucial role in helping your baby sleep soundly during the 4-month regression. Make sure the room is dark, quiet, and comfortably cool. Consider using window darkening treatments and white noise machines to drown out any background noise. Additionally, choose appropriate sleep attire and bedding to keep your baby comfortable throughout the night.
5. Practice Patience and Self-Care
Above all, remember to practice patience and self-care during this challenging time. It's okay to feel frustrated or exhausted – parenting is hard work! Be kind to yourself and prioritize self-care activities that help you recharge, whether it's taking a relaxing bath, going for a walk, or asking for help from friends and family.
Remember that this phase is normal and with the right plan, patience and perseverance, you and your baby will emerge stronger than ever.
still struggling with the 4 month regression?
The 4-month regression may feel like a daunting hurdle. By establishing a consistent routine, encouraging self-soothing skills, creating a sleep-conducive environment, and practicing patience and self-care, you'll be better equipped to navigate the ups and downs of parenthood.
Remember, this too shall pass, and before you know it, you'll be onto the next exciting stage of your baby's development. Stay strong, and remember that you're doing an amazing job!
If you find yourself needing more support, please reach out to A Restful Night for a free consultation call .
Meg O’Leary is an Infant and Child Sleep Expert and the Founder of A Restful Night. She and her team offer sleep training support to families worldwide.
