Do you have a baby that is 12 months old or older? If so, then you may be experiencing a 12-month sleep regression. This phenomenon can be quite frustrating for both parents and babies. In this blog post, we will discuss what the 12 month sleep regression is, how to deal with it, and some tips to help your baby get back to sleeping through the night!
What is Sleep Regression?
Sleep regression is a stage during your child’s development when their sleep patterns suddenly become interrupted. This can be especially exhausting for parents, as the child might experience more difficulty with naps or bedtime and may wake up more frequently during the night. While it’s natural to worry, try your best to remain calm and keep in mind that sleep regression is actually an important milestone in your child’s growth.
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Regular sleep patterns usually return after this phase of development passes, so don’t be overwhelmed – you and your family will get through it! Keep in mind that every parent and family comes with its own unique set of challenges – don’t be afraid to reach out for support from a pediatrician if needed.
12 Month Sleep Regression:
12-Month Sleep Regression occurs when a baby’s sleep routine gets disturbed. If your baby was sleeping well and then suddenly experiences sleep problems, it may be going through a 12-month sleep regression. This can manifest in a variety of ways including difficulty falling asleep, increased wakefulness at night, shorter naps during the day or shorter amounts of time spent sleeping overall.
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Regressions are normal milestones in a baby’s development and the good news is that the effects are generally short-lived – typically lasting just 4 to 6 weeks at most. Parents can help by sticking to consistent bedtimes, avoiding caffeine near bedtime, providing babies with extra comfort and support before bed to ease their transition from day to night, and adjusting any nighttime routines as needed throughout this stage.
Signs Of 12-Month Sleep Regression:
Sleep regression at 12 months old is an incredibly common problem for parents of young children.
It can be exasperating when a child who was sleeping well suddenly begins having difficulties:
- excessive crying and becoming fussy during the night
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- frequent night wakings
- waking up more frequently than usual
- and difficulty napping
These could all be signs of sleep regression. If you’re noticing any of these behaviors, it may be time to take a look at your baby’s sleeping habits and find ways to get them back on track.
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Some approaches that can help include creating a consistent bedtime routine with winding down activities, setting limits on daytime naps to ensure they are well-rested but not overly so at night, and avoiding stimulation or bright lights before bedtime by turning off screens an hour or two before bedtime. Taking proactive steps like these can help make all the difference in ensuring your little one gets the peaceful sleep they need!
How To Deal With A 12-Month Sleep Regression?
If your baby is experiencing sleep regression, there are several things you can do to help them get back on track.
Comfortable Bassinet/Crib
Make sure that your baby’s bed is comfortable and supportive, as a good sleep environment will help them rest better at night.
Consistent Bedtime Routine With Activities
Creating consistent bedtime routines and sticking to them as much as possible will help your child understand when it’s time for sleeping. Routines should include calming activities like reading stories before bed or taking a warm bath.
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Limit Daytime Naps
Limit daytime naps like a morning nap or afternoon nap to ensure they are not overly tired at night, while still giving them enough rest during the day.
Avoiding Stimulation & Bright Lights Before Bedtime
It’s important to reduce stimulation and keep the room quiet and dark an hour before bedtime – this will help create a peaceful environment for sleeping.
Remember that disrupted sleep is a normal part of the development and will pass eventually. If you are struggling with sleep regression, don’t be afraid to reach out for help – there is plenty of support available from friends, family, or even baby sleep specialists who can guide you through the process. Taking some time now to create healthy sleeping habits will benefit your entire family in the long run.
What To Expect After The 12-Month Sleep Regression Is Over?
Once the sleep regression is over, you should find that your baby’s sleeping habits have returned to normal.
- Most babies will be able to resume the same schedule they had before the regression and you can expect their nighttime waking to subside.
- Your baby will likely fall asleep more quickly and stay asleep for longer periods of time, resulting in better restful nights.
- Additionally, if you have been consistent with implementing a bedtime routine during the regression period, it should help keep those habits in place even after the regression is over. It is important to continue maintaining good bedtime habits throughout this period of time as it sets a good foundation for consistent sleeping patterns in the future. This means establishing a regular bedtime routine, avoiding screen time and stimulants before bed, using calming techniques to help your baby relax, and providing them with a comfortable environment for sleep.
- Finally, you can look forward to more peaceful nights and a better-rested baby!
Although sleep regressions can be frustrating, they are normal milestones of development and with some patience and proactive steps, you can get through them and enjoy plenty of restful nights ahead. By following healthy sleep habits, you can help ensure that your baby is well-rested and happy!
Read more: 11 Month Sleep Regression
Final Thoughts:
12-Month Sleep Regression is a normal stage in a baby’s development, and although it can be trying at times, parents can take proactive steps to make sure their little one gets the sleep they need. By establishing bedtime sleep training, limiting daytime naps, and providing a peaceful environment for sleeping, parents are more likely to get through this period of time quickly.
With some patience and dedication to good sleep habits, you can look forward to more peaceful nights ahead. By taking the time now to help their baby adjust, parents will be well on their way to a better-rested child in the long run.
