Why Your Baby’s Sleep Regressions Are Actually a Good Thing (and How to Get Through Them)
Are you dreading the 4-month sleep regression? Wondering why your baby insists on falling asleep sitting or standing? Have you been convinced you need to read 100 extra bedtime stories, sing all the lullabies, and bounce on the yoga ball until sunrise—just to get an hour of sleep?
You’re not alone. Sleep regressions (or progressions, as we like to call them) can turn even the best sleepers into tiny nighttime party animals. The good news? This phase is normal, temporary, and a sign your baby is growing in all the best ways.
What Is a Sleep Regression?
A sleep regression is a period when a baby who was previously sleeping well suddenly starts waking more frequently, taking short naps, or fighting bedtime. It might be one of these things or for some lucky parents, all of them.
Most sleep regressions are triggered by developmental progressions; big leaps in brain growth, new physical skills, and changes in how your baby experiences the world.
When Do Sleep Regressions Happen?
While every baby is different, there are a few classic ages when sleep can feel especially hard:
✅ 4 months – This isn’t just a regression; it’s a permanent shift in how your baby’s sleep cycles work. It’s a maturation of their sleep cycles.
✅ 8–10 months – A huge burst of development (crawling, pulling to stand, separation anxiety) can disrupt sleep.
✅ 12 months – Walking and first words can trigger more wakefulness.
✅ 18 months – A leap in language, big feelings, and boundary testing.
✅ 2 years – Nap transitions, bedtime resistance, and another wave of independence.
Why Do Regressions Happen?
Think of regressions as progressions in disguise.
When babies are learning something new, their brains create and strengthen neural pathways. This is exciting work and it doesn’t turn off when they go to bed.
Often, they want to practice their new skills at naptime and bedtime. Rolling, crawling, pulling up, and babbling can all feel more interesting than sleep.
While it’s completely normal, it can feel overwhelming when your baby is suddenly waking frequently or more upset than you’ve ever seen them.
Signs Your Baby May Be in a Regression
Increased night wakings
Short naps
Fighting bedtime
Practicing new skills in the crib (like standing in the crib or falling asleep sitting)
Clinginess or fussiness during the day
How Long Does a Sleep Regression Last?
Most sleep regressions last 2–6 weeks. The length depends on your baby’s temperament, developmental stage, and how consistent your response is.
How to Handle Sleep Regressions
1. Keep practicing new skills during awake time.
Encourage tummy time, crawling practice, and standing during the day so your baby can get the urge to practice out of their system.
2. Stay consistent with your routines.
This helps your baby feel secure, even when their sleep is disrupted.
3. Allow space for independent settling.
If you can, give your baby time to work things out in the crib before rushing in. If your baby isn’t sleeping independently yet, now might be a good time to explore working on these new skills.
4. Offer comfort when needed.
Reassurance is important, especially if your baby is upset. Just try not to introduce new habits you don’t want long term (like frequent feeds or rocking to sleep every time).
5. Take care of yourself.
Sleep regressions are hard on parents, too. Rest when you can, accept help, and remember this is temporary.
When to Seek Extra Support
If your baby’s sleep isn’t improving after 4–6 weeks, or if you feel completely overwhelmed, it can be helpful to work with a pediatric sleep consultant. Sometimes a fresh perspective and a clear plan are all you need to get back on track.
Final Thoughts
Sleep regressions can feel like a giant step backward, but they’re actually a sign that your baby is growing, learning, and developing exactly as they should.
With time, patience, and a little consistency, your baby will return to more settled sleep and you’ll all feel better again soon.
💛 Need a little help?
We offer personalized, benefits-covered sleep coaching for babies 4 months to 5 years old. If you’re ready for rest, we’re here for you. Book a chat to learn more.
Author: Andria Gordon
Andria Gordon is the Founder of Have Baby. Must Sleep., a leading child sleep consulting agency. As a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, she has helped over 2,000 families get the rest they need. She regularly speaks to parent groups, daycares, and preschools, and her work has been featured on Global News Canada.
Andria co-founded a certification course focused on Children’s Sleep and Medical Conditions, and is a proud member of several professional associations. A former senior ad executive, she’s known for providing warm, high-touch support to every family she serves.
Follow her on Instagram @havebabymustsleep for sleep tips and expert insights.
About Have Baby. Must Sleep.
Have Baby. Must Sleep. is a leading pediatric sleep consultancy supporting families with children ages 0 to 5. The team specializes in high-touch, fully customized sleep coaching designed to fit each family's unique lifestyle and values.
Founded and run by a mom who know firsthand the toll of sleepless nights, Have Baby. Must Sleep. offers compassionate, expert-led support that goes beyond one-size-fits-all advice. With over 2000 families helped and a sole focus on pediatric sleep, the team brings deep knowledge, proven methods, and a commitment to getting families the rest they need and deserve.
Learn more at www.havebabymustsleep.com.
