Babies are constantly growing and developing during their first year of life. One important milestone is when they start to sleep through the night. For most babies, this happens around 6 months old. But sometimes, babies will start having trouble sleeping at around 8 months old. This is known as an 8 month sleep regression. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of an 8-month sleep regression, and provide tips for how to deal with it!
What Is An 8 Month Sleep Regression?
8-month sleep regression can be very disheartening for new parents as it usually occurs right around the time when their baby has been sleeping well and developing healthy sleep patterns. It’s important to know that this regression is a normal part of the development and usually lasts three to five days – in some cases, it can extend out to two weeks.
Read more: 3 Month-Old Sleep Regression
During this regression, babies wake up more frequently at night, make irregular napping patterns, or refuse to nap during certain times. This often results in longer night wakings with inconsolable crying.
Fortunately, there is sleep training you can follow to support your baby throughout this process. Try reassuring your baby by delivering consistency in routine and ensuring appropriate room temperatures for them to get good quality sleep. Give yourself plenty of grace too during this sleep train! You’re doing great!
Why Sleep Regressions Occur In 8-Month Babies
Around 8 months of age, many babies experience a period of sleep regression or difficulty sleeping that can leave parents feeling frustrated and exhausted. Sleep regression is a normal part of infant development and typically occurs because babies are rapidly growing and shifting from inconsistent naps to more regular sleep patterns.
Read more: 4 Month Sleep Regression Or Teething
During this time, babies start producing more melatonin and slowly learn to self-soothe in order to help themselves fall asleep without the need for extra attention from their parents. Researchers believe that 8-month sleep regressions can also be caused by babies developing independence, as they may become easily frustrated when they do not have as much control as they desire.
What Are The Signs Of 8 Month Sleep Regression?
Eight-month regression is a term used to describe common sleep issues that children may experience at eight months of age. Averagely, infants will take around 10-12 hours at night and several naps during the day.
Read more: 5 Month Old Sleep Schedule
When eight-month regression occurs, parents will notice changes in these patterns like an increase in the amount of times they wake up at night or they begin to reject naps during the day. The baby may start crying and become more clingy and difficult to soothe as well, seeking more comfort than previously.
8-month sleep regression can be distressing for parents and bub alike, most babies will outgrow this phase as quickly as it starts and will resume their normal routine within 1-2 weeks of addressing their needs.
What Can Parents Do To Help Their Babies Get Through It?
Dealing with 8-month babies sleep regression can be tough for both parents and babies, but it is important to remember that this is a normal part of the development and will not last forever. For babies experiencing sleep regression at 8 months old, parents can take steps to help their little ones get through this period of disrupted sleep with as little stress (and extra coffee!) as possible.
Bassinet & Sleep Environment
Make sure to create a comfortable, safe and calming sleep environment for your baby sleep. Invest in a good-quality bassinet to provide optimal comfort and the ideal temperature for your little one’s night sleep.
In addition, ensure that your baby’s sleep environment is comfortable and safe by using a firm mattress for crib sleeping and avoiding any loose blankets or pillows.
Read more: 6 Month Sleep Regression
Consistent Bedtime Routine
It is important to provide a consistent bedtime routine – one that starts around the same time each night and includes minimal stimulation including a warm bath and calming story or music before lights out. Also, try making sure your baby gets plenty of food throughout the day in order to provide adequate nutrition to help him stay well-rested.
Naps
Furthermore, naps should be taken when tiredness first sets in during the day rather than letting him become overtired before nap time. This will prevent him from becoming too cranky and fussy before bedtime.
Patience
Most importantly, it is important to remain patient during this period of sleep regression as your little one will soon outgrow this phase and resume his normal sleep patterns in no time!
By following these guidelines you can hopefully assist your baby’s transition through 8-month sleep regression with as much ease as possible!
How Long Will The 8-Month Regression Last?
Some experts suggest it usually lasts anywhere from 3-4 months, but this could vary from kid to kid. In some cases, the regression may progress quickly and pass by just as fast, or it may take longer for your kiddo to get back on track.
The best thing you can do is remain in contact with your pediatrician since they are familiar with your child’s individual needs and can provide tailored advice for helping them through the process.
Read more: 7 Month Sleep Regression
Tips For Surviving 8-Month Sleep Regressions:
Getting through an 8-month sleep regression can be tough, but there are some strategies that parents can use to help make the process a little easier.
- Understand your baby’s individual needs and create a schedule around them. This includes understanding when they need naps and establishing a consistent bedtime routine.
- Limit stimulation before bedtime. Keep the lights low, avoid any loud noises, and limit screen time in the hours leading up to bedtime.
- Offer extra cuddles and comfort during this time of transition. Your baby may be extra clingy and need more attention than usual- make sure to give them the extra TLC they need!
- Try not to worry about the lack of sleep. This period can be challenging but it is a temporary phase and will pass soon enough.
- Stay in contact with your pediatrician who can provide tailored advice for helping your baby through the process.
Conclusion:
8-month sleep is a normal part of development that can be challenging to get through. However, by following the steps such as creating a consistent bedtime routine and providing plenty of cuddles, parents can help their babies make it through this period with minimal disruption. By understanding your baby’s individual needs and staying in contact with your pediatrician, you can help ensure your baby gets the rest they need to thrive.
