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What is a regression?
Sleep regressions occur when there are developmental progressions happening in your baby's life. These regressions coincide with the proper physical, cognitive, and emotional development of your baby.
What is the 8-10 month regression?
Around 8-10 months, it's common for babies to experience changes in their sleep patterns due to developmental milestones. If your baby previously had a solid sleep foundationbut suddenly starts struggling with sleep or their sleep quality worsens, it's likely that they have entered a regression phase.
Why does this regression happen?
This regression occurs because babies undergo significant mental growth and learn new physical skills. One notable development is the emergence of separation anxiety, where babies become upset when they lose sight of their caregivers. This is because they have gained an understanding that objects and people still exist even when they are out of sight. The onset of separation anxiety contributes to changes in their sleep patterns and can lead to sleep disruptions during this regression.
So why does sleep become a struggle?
Your baby's enthusiasm and excitement about their new skills, combined with the emerging separation anxiety, can make it challenging for them to settle down and sleep peacefully. They may become more clingy and upset when they are away from you, which can further impact their sleep.
How long will this regression last
Sleep regressions can usually last anywhere between 2-4 weeks. Hang in there! They're going through so much right now, all they need is consistency and the chance to work on these new skills. Sleep regressions typically last anywhere between 2-4 weeks. Hang in there! They're going through so much right now. What they need most during this time is consistency and the opportunity to practice and work on their new skills. Remember that it is a temporary phase, and with patience, you can help your child through this challenging time.
Signs of a regression
◦ Fussiness at bedtime
◦ Multiple night wakings
◦ Early rising
◦ Fights naptime
◦ Short naps
◦ Changes in appetite
◦ Clinginess
What else is happening during the 8-10 month regression
During this period, your baby is experiencing a significant physical growth spurt, combined with new developmental milestones. These milestones include sitting up, crawling, pulling up to stand, stacking objects, and babbling. These newfound physical abilities require increased exploration, practice, and coordination, which can naturally impact their sleep patterns.
How to navigate the 8-10 month sleep regression
Introduce gentle sleep training if needed
If you're seeking help, I have a downloadable sleep guide and optional plans, which can provide the guidance and support needed to establish solid naps and 10-12 hour nights of sleep. To be re-directed to the 4-24 month sleep guide and plans, you can click here.
Aim for appropriate wake windows
Around 8-10 months of age, wake windows for babies are typically around 3 to 3.5 hours.
If you find it difficult to expand your child's wake windows, taking them outside can be helpful. Sunlight exposure can provide a natural energy boost because the sunlight suppresses melatonin production(the sleep hormone). Additionally, the outdoor environment can provide sensory stimulation with its vibrant colors and soothing sounds of nature, helping to keep your little one alert and engaged.
Ensure they consume enough calories during the day
To eliminate hunger as a possible cause of sleep disruptions, it's important to ensure that your baby is consuming feeds regularly. Aim to feed your baby every 2.5 to 3 hours during the day, with a maximum interval of 4 hours between feeds.
Use the day wisely
Taking advantage of the day! Practising any new skills during awake times will make your baby be less likely to be overly excited or stimulated at bedtime. One activity you can incorporate is playing peek-a-boo. This simple game not only brings joy and laughter to your baby but also teaches them about separation and reassurance. By showing your baby that you come back after briefly hiding, it helps them understand that you will always return, even if they can't see you for a moment. This can contribute to a sense of security and comfort, making bedtime transitions smoother for them.
When leaving them
➞ Don't sneak away
Leaving without any reassurance or explanation can be stressful for a baby. It's important to provide a sense of security and comfort during transitions and separations. Instead of quickly leaving without their awareness, it can be helpful to communicate with your baby. Let your baby know that you'll be leaving and assure them that you'll return. This helps build trust and reduces any anxiety or fear they may experience
➞ Say goodbye
Saying goodbye before leaving can help build trust and create a sense of security for your baby. While it's common for babies to experience some initial tears or protests when saying goodbye, consistent and loving goodbyes can gradually help them understand that you will always come back. Over time, they may start to smile, wave, or even say goodbye themselves, indicating their growing trust and confidence in the process.
➞ Don't linger
Dragging out the goodbye can indeed prolong the process and potentially make it more upsetting for both you and your baby. It's important to keep the goodbye simple and clear. Once you say goodbye, make your way towards the exit without lingering or returning multiple times. This approach helps set clear expectations and allows your baby to gradually adjust to the temporary separation. It's natural for them to experience some initial distress, but by maintaining a consistent and confident approach to saying goodbye, you can help them develop a sense of security and adapt to the temporary separation more smoothly.
Encourage routine
Establishing a consistent daily routine can provide a sense of stability and security for your baby. Routines help them understand what to expect and create a sense of familiarity, which can help them feel more grounded.
Consistency
It's is crucial to maintain consistency with your child's established routine. Even though regressions can be challenging, it's important to resist the temptation of introducing new habits or making significant changes to their sleep routine. Regressions are temporary phases, but the habits formed during this time can persist..
Do you need help?
Did you know if your baby has a strong sleep foundation, the chances of sleep being disrupted during developmental changes decrease significantly?
I have the tools and resources to help you. I have guides and optional plans that can give you that one-on-one support you need.
Written by Alexandra Selekos I'm the founder of Babee Dreams, a certified sleep consultant and a mum of three. My approach is based on studies, training through The Sleep Consulting Academy, successful outcomes experienced by those who have used my methods and the instincts of a mother. My approach will help your baby achieve their best sleep, whilst always feeling reassured, loved and never neglected.