Written by Laura – Resident Baby Nurse at Choice Pharmacy
What is the 4 Month Sleep regression?
A sleep regression is when a baby’s sleep pattern changes and they wake more frequently during the night. They often find it difficult to re-settle. Sleep regression is usually a sign that the baby is going through a growth spurt or that their brain is developing. The baby’s brain is constantly evolving and developing. They are learning new skills, such as rolling and even sitting. This development can be frustrating for the new baby and therefore their sleep might be affected. This regression can be very difficult for parents and may last 2-4weeks. Not all babies experience this.
Signs of a sleep regression
If your baby has been sleeping well during the night and all of a sudden they’re not, it may be a sleep regression.
Other signs include:
- Fussiness
- Night waking
- Less napping
- Change in appetite
- More emotional
There is good news from the lack of sleep- your baby is growing and learning. They are becoming more engaged with the environment.
How to survive sleep regression?
Remember that sleep regressions are only temporary. It’s also very important to make sure it’s not an illness that might be causing the fussiness and lack of sleep. Make sure to get the baby checked if they have a fever or appear unwell.
- Give your baby time during the day to practice their new skills. This will hopefully tire them and help to get more sleep.
- Ensure they are having full feeds during the day to try to prevent them from getting hungry during the night. However, they may need to be fed overnight during this growth spurt.
- Help your baby to self settle. Sit by their side and offer reassurance by patting/shushing.
- Keep the room as dark as possible.
- It’s important to establish a bedtime routine. Now is the time to regulate their sleep patterns. A bedtime routine is important and definitely worth being consistent.
- If you hear your baby at night, wait a little bit as they may re-settle. If you do need to feed/change the baby, make sure you are quick and re-settle as soon as you can. Keep the room as dark as possible.
- Make sure you don’t miss the ‘sleep window’. Watch for signs of yawning/rubbing eyes/fussing and grizzling. Ensure you put them to sleep as soon as you can.
- Lots of hugs and cuddles are so important to make them feel loved. It’s so important for parents to have this comfort, too. Especially when you are sleep deprived….
You can book our Baby Nurse for in-store consultation online.
Free Baby Nurse Service is available at Box Hill, Colebee, Eastern Creek & North Kellyville Store.
