As your baby nears their first birthday, you may encounter the dreaded 12-month sleep regression– a period where an otherwise healthy sleeper suddenly refuses to sleep through the night. From understanding why it happens to knowing how to cope with sleep deprivation, here is a guide on what you need to know about the 12-month sleep regression.
12 month sleep regression is a natural process that happens when a baby’s brain and body go through a rapid growth spurt, leading to disruptions in their established sleep patterns. During this unique period, babies may experience changes in their sleep cycles including wakefulness throughout the night, restlessness during naps, and an overall resistance to bedtime. It’s important to remember that regression at this age is absolutely normal and your baby will eventually adapt.
How do you Fix the 12 Month Sleep Regression?
Sleep regressions are a normal part of development for infants and toddlers, but that doesn’t make them any less frustrating for parents. The 12 month sleep regression is one of the most common regressions and can be especially challenging to navigate. If your child is going through this regression, here are some tips to help you get through it.
Understand What’s Going On
The first step in fixing the 12 month sleep regression is to understand what’s going on. This regression typically occurs when babies reach their first birthday and start to experience rapid cognitive and physical development. As they become more aware of their surroundings, they may become more easily distracted or have difficulty settling down at night. It’s important to remember that this is a normal part of development and that it will pass with time. This is where your little ones personality can have a huge impact on how they transition through this regression. Those who are super alert and animated will find it even harder to switch off than their laid back peers. For these little ones the period of adjustment may be longer.
Create a Consistent Bedtime Routine
Creating a consistent bedtime routine can help your baby adjust to the changes in their sleep patterns during the 12 month sleep regression. A good bedtime routine should be carried in the same order every night. I would also suggest that once you go upstairs for bedtime that you stay upstairs. Performing all of the steps to bedtime upstairs will help to keep things on track. Too many changes of location can actually be quite stimulating. Don’t forget to include calming activities such as reading stories or singing lullabies, as well as giving your little one plenty of cuddles and reassurance that you are there for them. This moment of connection can be hugely beneficial. Having a consistent routine helps your baby learn when it’s time to wind down for the night, which can make it easier for them to fall asleep.
Be Patient
It’s important to remember that this regression won’t last forever and that it will eventually pass with time. It can be difficult not to get frustrated when your baby isn’t sleeping as well as they used to, but try your best not to take it out on them or yourself. Instead, focus on being patient and understanding while you work together with your baby through this transition period.
Make Sure They Get Enough Daytime Sleep
Getting enough daytime sleep is essential for babies during this age as it helps them regulate their night time sleep patterns more effectively. Make sure your baby is getting enough naps during the day so they don’t become overtired at night, which can make it harder for them to settle down and fall asleep. Some babies might show signs that they can cope with one nap at this age but this is VERY early to make this transition. Ideally you should wait until around 14 months to make the nap transition from 2 to 1 naps in a day. Instead stick to two naps which helps the sleep to be spread throughout the day.
The 12 month sleep regression can be challenging for both parents and babies alike, but by understanding what’s going on, creating a consistent bedtime routine, being patient with yourself and your baby, and making sure they get enough daytime sleep you can help make this transition period easier for everyone involved!