Sleep regression at 4 months
What you need to know
As your baby reaches four months, you may notice a significant change in their sleep patterns. This is a stage of regression, a normal and natural part of development, but it can feel overwhelming for parents. The 4-month sleep regression typically lasts between 3 to 4 weeks and manifests as difficulties falling asleep and more frequent nighttime awakenings.
1. Sleep Cycles Evolve: Babies begin to develop more mature sleep cycles similar to those of adults, lasting between 30 to 45 minutes. This can lead to more frequent awakenings, especially for those who have not yet learned to fall asleep independently;
2. Ability to Roll Over: At this age, many babies begin to roll over. It is essential to stop swaddling, as it can become unsafe;
3. Sleep Associations: Babies develop sleep associations; if they fall asleep with the help of a bottle or breastfeeding, they are likely to wake and need the same help to fall back asleep;
4. Awareness of Their Environment: The baby becomes more aware of the world around them, which can affect how they sleep. Everything happening around them can seem intriguing yet distracting.
• Maintain Consistency: If your baby has learned to fall asleep independently, keep the routine consistent and avoid introducing new associations;
• Choose a Simple Method: If they need help falling asleep, opt for an easily applicable method;
• Monitor Wake Times: Stick to wake intervals of 90 minutes to 2 hours, and aim for bedtime around 7 PM;
• Adjust Routines: Offer a calming routine before bedtime, such as reading or a warm bath;
• Be Flexible: Sometimes, a nap in the stroller can be a good solution if you notice that the baby struggles to fall asleep at home.
Remember that babies thrive on predictability, and maintaining a consistent schedule can make a big difference in their sleep
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