Every child goes through sleep regressions. One day they will sleep through the night, then next they are up at midnight wanting a bottle for no discernible reason. The pandemic has made sleep regressions worse and more frequent for many.
So what can parents do?
We can understand what drives sleep regressions and know when we need to seek help. Here are some sleep regression facts and tips so you can get back to sleep soon.
Sleep regressions are a reaction to change
Outside of corona time, I would focus on expecting sleep regressions during big developmental milestones. Sleep takes a step back while the brain expands and processes new development.
That means you can expect sleep regressions when the baby is learning to roll over, sit up, crawl, walk, begin talking, etc. But during corona time, that can expand to include any big changes, including: a parent being laid off/ going back to work, going back to school or preschool, rearranging their room, getting new furniture, or even first grandparent visits in over a year.
If the child starts having trouble at night, see if you can figure out the trigger. Knowing the trigger will help you predict future regressions as things open back up.
Sleep regressions should only ever be one step backwards
Kids go through a lot of sleep phases. There is the swaddling and waking up every 3 hours, followed by the only waking up once or twice a night. Then they stop needing middle of the night feedings, etc.
If you have a 2-year-old that is sleeping through the night and suddenly they need to be swaddled again and are waking up every 3 hours even though they haven’t needed that in more than a year, it is time to get help. Make a doctor’s appointment and see what you need to do to help your kiddo out.
Sleep that regresses over one step backward can be a red flag and you will need professional help to get it addressed.
Sleep regressions should only apply to sleep
If your child is regressing during the day, especially significantly, there is more going on than a reaction to change.
For example, if you have a child who can run and walk and they suddenly only want to crawl, that is a big red flag. Make an appointment with your doctor ASAP if you notice any major regressions beyond sleep.
It is a phase
I promise, this is a little blip and it will iron itself out soon. Most sleep regressions only last a couple of weeks, some last a little longer, but they all end.
While the child is struggling through a regression, try to be understanding. If they can communicate what they need, give it to them. Remember, this is not an attempt at being annoying or needy. They don’t want to go through a sleep regression either. It is not intentional.
Everything will be okay sooner than you think
Sleep regressions are a pain. We are going through one right now because my husband got a new job. It sucks. No one is sleeping.
But it will end.
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Jane
Jane Reid, the primary author of Unprepared Mom and STEM 911, is an educator, tutor, women’s rights advocate, and mom. Here to make your life easier one article at a time.