Say hello to your baby’s sleep patterns’ roller-coaster ride! Just when you thought you had it all under control, the 9 month sleep regression jumps in. This can be a puzzling and a completely tiring phase for parents, but understanding its causes, signs and coping strategies can make a huge difference.
What is this Sleep Regression?
Sleep regression is a stage when your baby who slept well before suddenly starts waking up at night or has trouble falling asleep. It's like they’re having a growth spurt in their brain and body that affects their sleep.
Common Ages for Sleep Regressions
Although these regresses can happen at any time, they are most common around: 4 months, 8-10 months (aka the 9 month sleep regression), about 18 months and then 2 years old again.
Signs of a 9 Month Sleep Regression
If your baby who was once such an angelic sleeper has now:
Been waking up every two hours
Been resisting taking naps
Showing increased crankiness or clinginess come bedtime
...then you’ve entered the phase of the 9 month sleep regression!
Reasons Behind a Sleep Regression
Developmental Milestones: Your baby is going through some major growth leaps. They’re learning to crawl, stand up and maybe even walk. You’d think they’d be tired but all these new things being learned could keep them up at night.
Separation Anxiety: At this age babies start to understand that they’re independent from their caregivers which results in separation anxiety. Bedtime might become the most challenging time as they won’t want to be left alone.
Going From Three Naps to Two: They might have outgrown three naps in one day window and transitioning to just two nap times might mess with their routine until they adjust to it.
How Long Will The 9 Month Sleep Regression Last?
It’s hard to say for sure because it depends but it usually takes between about 2-6 weeks. It’ll go away, just be patient.
How to Handle the 9 Month Sleep Regression
1. Adjust Baby's Bedtime Schedule: Consider putting your baby to bed earlier in the evening to mitigate overtiredness which can cause the regression to worsen.
2. Establish a Regular Bedtime Routine: A consistent routine at bedtime is even more important now. Bath, book, bed – whatever works best to tell your baby that it's time to wind down.
3. Make Your Baby's Room Sleep-Friendly: The room should be dark, cool and quiet so that nothing distracts your baby from their sleep. A good environment will improve their sleep quality during this regression.
4. Help with Teething Pain: This kind of pain often come around when the 9 month regression does too. Try teething rings or talk with your pediatrician if you’re not sure what else could help them.
5. Keep Baby’s Sleep Routine Consistent: Stick with the routine no matter what as much as you can manage it . Consistency is comforting and can help them find their way through this sleep regression easier.
6. Give Your Baby Time to Work on Their New Skills: Let them practice their new skills as much as they want during the day so they’re less likely to want to do it at night.
Frequently asked questions about the 9 month sleep regression:
Do these regressions exist at these ages?
Yes they do actually! The regressions at these ages are usually caused by developmental stages and nap schedule changes.
When Does It End?
The 9-month sleep regression usually doesn't stick around for long — but it can feel like a lifetime. With patience and adjustments to your routine, this too shall pass.
How much sleep do babies need at 9 months?
At 9 months, babies generally need about 12-14 hours of sleep over a 24-hour period, including naps.
Can the 8-month sleep regression start early?
Sleep regressions aren’t exact science and can start earlier or later depending on your baby’s unique development pace. You know what they say: Expect the unexpected.
My 8-month-old won't nap: Does the 8-month regression affect naps?
Yes, the eight-month (or nine-month) regression can affect both nighttime sleep and naps. It's common for babies to resist naps during this time as well.
About the Nine Month Old Sleep Regression
Think of it as growing pains for their noggin. The nine month old sleep regression is a period that's tough not just for you, but our little ones too. Embracing flexibility in your routines and understanding why this is happening will make things easier though. This is just another phase in their growth and learning so worry not! And remember with just some adjustments and a ton of cuddles you’ll both come out the other side even happier...and hopefully better rested.
So say good night to sleepless nights, here's to hoping you'll be able to catch some z’s soon enough!
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