One moment you’re cradling your tiny newborn, and before you know it, your baby is already over six months old. By the time they reach seven months, your little one is likely giggling, babbling, rolling over, and starting to grasp the concept of object permanence. However, amidst these exciting milestones, you might find that your seven-month-old is not sleeping as soundly as they once did. If this sounds familiar, your baby may be experiencing a seven-month sleep regression. While it can feel like you’re losing precious sleep for a few weeks, rest assured that this is a common phase many infants go through. Here’s what you need to know about the seven-month sleep regression and how you can navigate this challenging time.
What is Sleep Regression?
In simple terms, sleep regression refers to periods when a previously well-sleeping baby or toddler suddenly struggles to maintain their sleep schedule. This might mean waking up frequently at night, having trouble falling back asleep, or taking shorter naps than usual—or sometimes refusing naps altogether. It’s understandably frustrating for tired parents who thought they had established a stable sleep routine.
Since the 1940s, developmental psychologists have studied sleep regression in infants. However, despite over seven decades of research, the reasons and timing of these regressions remain somewhat elusive, as reported by the New York Times. While there are numerous resources detailing specific “stages” of sleep regression, it’s essential to remember that each baby is unique. If your child’s sleep patterns don’t align with established timelines, it’s generally not a cause for alarm. Always feel free to consult your pediatrician with any concerns.
How Often Should a 7-Month-Old Wake Up at Night?
If your baby is going through sleep regression, the number of night wakings can feel overwhelming. For a typical seven-month-old, the expected total sleep time is about 14 to 16 hours a day, which includes one to three daytime naps and approximately nine to eleven hours of nighttime sleep. While night awakenings are normal, if these interruptions significantly impact your baby’s overall sleep, it may warrant further evaluation.
Signs of the 7-Month Sleep Regression
By the time your baby reaches seven months, you may have encountered at least one sleep regression already. Although most discussions tend to focus on six- and eight-month regressions, it’s entirely possible for sleep challenges to arise at seven months. The signs often mirror previous regressions:
- Increased fussiness
- More frequent nighttime awakenings, taking longer to settle back to sleep
- Changes in appetite
- Shorter naps or “disaster naps” lasting less than 45 minutes
What to Do During a Baby’s 7-Month Sleep Regression
While it’s easy to feel frustrated when your baby’s sleep schedule is disrupted, it’s important to recognize that this phase is temporary. Here are some strategies to help you manage your baby’s seven-month sleep regression:
- Provide additional comfort and reassurance.
- Wake them up at the same time each morning.
- Consider more frequent feedings, especially if they are experiencing growth spurts.
- Stick to their nap schedule and consider putting them down earlier if evening fussiness occurs.
Remember, as tiring as this phase can be, it won’t last forever, and both you and your baby will eventually return to a restful sleep pattern.
Sample Sleep Schedule for a 7-Month-Old
Creating a structured sleep schedule can be beneficial during sleep regression. Here’s a sample nap schedule, but feel free to adjust it to suit your baby’s needs:
- 7:15 a.m. – Wake up
- 8:15 a.m. – Breakfast
- 9:15 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. – Nap
- 11:15 a.m. – Snack
- 12:45 p.m. – Lunch
- 1:15 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. – Nap
- 3:15 p.m. – Light lunch
- 5:45 p.m. – Dinner
- 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. – Begin bedtime routine
- 8:15 p.m. – Bedtime
For more insights, don’t miss our other blog post that dives deeper into the nuances of baby sleep regressions.
Summary
Navigating the seven-month sleep regression can be challenging for parents, but understanding the signs and employing strategies for comfort and reassurance can make this time more manageable. Every child is different, so adjust routines as necessary and consult your pediatrician if needed.
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