4 Month Regression & Baby Sleep
Did you have a baby who was a fantastic sleeper and then BAM, they hit four months and all of their great sleeping habits went out the window? If so, then this post is for you! We’re going to talk about why this happens and what you can do to help your baby get through it.
Why does this happen?
As a newborn, your baby has two phases of sleep: quiet sleep and active sleep. Around 4 months, your baby will begin to develop a sleep cycle similar to an older child. The sleep cycle lasts about 40 minutes in its entirety and looks something like this:
How do sleep props effect the sleep cycle?
A sleep crutch or prop is anything that puts your baby to sleep. It may look like feeding, bouncing, snuggling or rocking to sleep. Around four months, these sleep props tend to become problematic. Babies who are accustomed to falling asleep with a sleep prop will often struggle to connect sleep cycles independently.
What can you do about it?
Sleep Train - Four months is the recommended time to formally sleep train your baby. Sleep training will teach your baby how to fall asleep independently without the presence of a sleep prop. I know what you’re thinking. Sleep training does not mean that you have to close the door and let your baby cry all night. There are many different methods of sleep training. A personal sleep consultant can help you determine what method is best for your baby.
Offer a Comfort Item - The American Association of Pediatrics recommends that your baby sleep with nothing but a tight fitting crib sheet until 12 months. However, some parents are comfortable with offering their baby a lovey. A pacifier is also a great comfort item to offer during sleep times.
Stay Consistent - Mama, I know you are tired and this is tough, but try not to establish any any new sleep crutches (like bringing baby to bed with you or driving around in the car for naps). Once the regression passes, you will have established a new habit that your baby will depend on to fall asleep .
Introduce a Weighted Sleep Sack - Some babies find the snug feeling of a weighted sleep sack to be similar to that of a parent’s hand on them. This comfort helps them to better connect sleep cycles independently. My favorite weighted sleep sack can be found here.
What if you baby has gone through the regression and sleep is still a struggle?
If your baby is still struggling with sleep, I can help! Click here to book your free consultation with me to see how I can help your family.
