4 Month Baby Sleep Regression - Brace Yourself!

Baby sleep regression is a thing. I am not going to convince you that you can avoid it, but I can help you to prepare for it. Beginning the sleep training process at the right time and teaching baby to self-sooth may significantly soften the regression issues.

How to recognize baby sleep regression?

Is your baby a good sleeper? If the baby suddenly starts crying and waking at night and/or don’t want to nap anymore, and you cannot find a reason why - it is probably the time.

Why is this happening?

At this time significant changes in your baby’s sleep cycle and development are happening. From now on your little one’s sleep is more like yours.

How long is this going to last?

It’s not going to be forever! Usually, 4-month baby sleep regression lasts from 2 to 6 weeks. But it can also continue for just a few nights and stop, for others, it can take weeks.

What can you do?

Teaching your baby to self-soothe before the regression comes may facilitate this time for both of you. Midnight wakings are unavoidable, but if the kid can deal with that - it is not such big of a problem.

How to start?

Gradually eliminate sleeping aids, such as rocking, wrapping, and white noise. Those are important during the first three months, as they bring mother’s womb to mind. Now focus on creating a soothing bedtime routine, preparing the baby for self-reliance in the outside world. If you’ve had one before - it is even better!

What is the next step?

It is time for proper sleep training. After three months your baby’s brain is developed enough to deal with such changes calmly. You can use my Hold With Love method. It is very gentle, with no ‚cry it out’ approach. Within the How to teach a baby to fall asleep alone guide I give you an easy step-by-step instruction to follow. If you stay consistent, you should see success in just a few days!

Ability to self-sooth is a game-changer regarding baby sleep patterns. Even if the baby sleep regression comes, your little one will be able to go back to sleep on his own. That is a relief both for you and the baby.

Susan Urban