Hampshire Baby Sleep Consultant Speaks About Regressions

Written By Emma Marriott

Baby Sleep Regressions: What They Are, Why They Happen, and How to Survive Them

You’ve just started to feel human again. Your baby is sleeping a little better, you’re catching some rest, and then — BAM! Out of nowhere, the nights get long, the naps get short, and your once-settled baby suddenly won’t sleep.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. This is what parents often call a sleep regression. And while the name makes it sound like your baby is going backwards, the truth is: regressions usually happen because your child is moving forward in their development.

Let’s break down what’s really going on — and what you can do to get through it.

What Exactly Is a Sleep Regression?

A sleep regression is when your little one’s sleep suddenly gets harder. They may:

  • Take ages to settle at bedtime

  • Wake more frequently in the night

  • Refuse naps or fight sleep

  • Seem clingier, fussier, or more irritable

These periods often pop up around big developmental milestones like:

  • Growth spurts

  • Teething pain

  • Learning to roll, crawl, stand or walk

  • Language bursts

  • Separation anxiety

  • Nursery transitions or parents returning to work

The good news? They’re temporary. Most regressions last about 2–4 weeks (sometimes shorter).

The Big 3 Regressions (that you notice)

While regressions can happen at any age, there are three key ones parents often talk about:

The 4-Month Sleep Regression

This is the big one. Around 4 months, your baby’s sleep cycles mature — meaning they wake more between cycles. Add in growth spurts, new social awareness, and early teething, and suddenly sleep gets messy.

The 8-Month Sleep Regression

This one is often linked to separation anxiety and new mobility skills. Crawling, pulling up, or even standing in the cot can keep them awake. On top of that, many babies transition from 3 naps to 2, which can cause overtiredness and early waking.

The 18-Month Sleep Regression

Now your little one is a full-blown toddler. Independence is their new favourite word, separation anxiety can peak again, and language frustration can play a role. All of this can disrupt bedtime and lead to pushback at night.

What Parents Can Actually Do During a Regression

Here’s how to survive — and keep your sanity:

  • Stick to your routine – Babies thrive on consistency. Even if sleep gets rocky, keeping bedtime rituals the same helps them feel secure.

  • Avoid introducing unwanted sleep habits – Rocking to sleep, feeding to sleep, or co-sleeping (if you don’t want to long-term) can be hard to undo later.

  • Offer comfort, not a whole new plan – Sometimes “riding the wave” is the best approach. Reassure, soothe, but try not to overhaul everything.

  • Watch wake windows – Overtiredness makes regressions worse. Keep an eye on age-appropriate nap schedules.

  • Give yourself grace – Regressions are temporary. Your baby isn’t “broken” and neither are you.

Do Sleep Regressions Really Exist?

Some experts argue regressions don’t exist — and it’s true not every child is affected. But many families see a sudden downturn in sleep around these stages. Whether you call it a “regression” or just a “phase,” the important thing is knowing it’s normal and temporary.

My Final Thoughts as Hampshire Baby Sleep Consultant

Sleep regressions can feel brutal in the moment — but they’re a sign your child is growing, learning, and developing new skills. Most importantly, they will pass.

The best thing you can do? Stay consistent, support your baby through the wobble, and don’t panic. Before you know it, sleep will settle again.

 Need help navigating a tough regression? As a certified baby sleep consultant based in Hampshire, I can guide you with personalised strategies that work for your family, helping families worldwide.

Book a free call today and let’s get you back to rested nights.

Love Emma XxX

 

Emma Marriott