As your baby approaches the milestone of their first birthday, witnessing their growth and development is truly remarkable. However, there are moments when it may feel like they’re regressing instead. If your little one is suddenly struggling to sleep through the night or refusing to settle down, you might be facing the eight-month sleep regression. Typically, babies at this age need about 12 to 15 hours of sleep daily (including naps and nighttime), and a lack of sufficient rest can lead to increased crankiness. Here’s what you should know about this phase and how you can help your baby get back on track.
If your baby is experiencing sleep disruptions, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide on sleep regressions, which covers everything from the three-month regression to the 12-month sleep regression.
What is Sleep Regression?
In general terms, sleep regression refers to periods—lasting anywhere from two to six weeks—when a baby or toddler who previously had a somewhat consistent sleep schedule begins to struggle. This can manifest as frequent nighttime awakenings, difficulty falling back to sleep, shorter naps, or outright refusal to nap, leaving parents feeling frustrated after believing they had established a routine.
Since the 1940s, developmental psychologists have studied the phenomenon of sleep regression. Despite over 70 years of research, the precise triggers and timelines for these regressions are not fully understood, according to the New York Times. While some resources provide specific “stages” of sleep regression as common milestones, it’s important for parents to recognize that every baby is different. If your child’s sleep patterns don’t align with these timelines, it’s typically not a cause for concern. Always consult your pediatrician with any specific questions.
Signs of the 8-Month Sleep Regression
If you feel as though you’ve tackled this issue before, it may remind you of the four-month sleep regression. Many babies experience another phase of sleep disruption between six and eight months. At this age, your baby undergoes significant cognitive and physical development, which can affect their sleep patterns. According to experts at Healthline, symptoms of an eight-month sleep regression often include:
- Increased nighttime awakenings and longer time to fall back asleep
- Heightened fussiness
- Shorter naps
- Resistance to sleep
Typical Sleep Schedule for an 8-Month-Old
Understanding a normal sleep schedule can help parents recognize signs of regression. While every baby is unique, most 8-month-olds typically require around 14 hours of sleep a day. It’s normal for them to sleep between nine to 12 hours at night and take several naps totaling three to four hours during the day.
If you’re looking for a sample schedule, here’s one to consider:
- 7:00 a.m. – Wake up
- 9:30 a.m. – Morning nap
- 11:30 a.m. – Wake up
- 2:00 p.m. – Afternoon nap
- 3:30 p.m. – Wake up
- 7:00 p.m. – Bedtime routine
- 7:30 p.m. – Sleep
Managing the 8-Month Sleep Regression
Start by checking if your baby has a fever, which can disrupt their sleep. If they seem healthy and are not teething, they might be experiencing sleep regression. Here are some strategies to help navigate this challenging phase:
- Establish a consistent bedtime routine and sleep schedule, including naps. It might be tempting to keep your baby awake longer in hopes they’ll sleep through the night, but a well-rested baby is more likely to sleep better.
- Ensure your baby is fed and has a clean diaper before bedtime.
- Expose your baby to natural light during their awake times to help regulate their sleep-wake cycle.
- Encourage your baby to fall asleep in their crib instead of in a swing, car seat, or while being held.
It may feel overwhelming during those crying spells, but remember that this phase is temporary. With time, your baby will likely return to a more regular sleep schedule.
Encouraging Healthy Sleep Habits
At eight months, babies are often full of energy and curiosity. To promote sound sleep at night, engage your little one in various activities during the day. Here are some fun ideas:
- Dance Party: Babies love to move! Play some music and dance around with your baby. They may even try to mimic your moves!
- Noisy Playtime: Encourage your baby to make joyful sounds and engage in vocal play—these activities can help tire them out just as effectively as crying.
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Summary
The eight-month sleep regression can be a challenging time for parents as their little ones navigate significant developmental changes. Recognizing the signs and understanding a typical sleep schedule can help you manage this phase. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine and engaging in daytime activities will also support better sleep patterns. Remember, this regression is temporary, and with patience and care, your baby will likely return to a more regular sleep schedule.
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