Understanding 12-month sleep regression
The 12-month sleep regression is one of those phases that can catch parents off guard. Just when you think you’ve finally got a good sleep routine going, your baby hits this sleep regression, and suddenly, sleep becomes a struggle again. But don’t worry—this phase, like others, is temporary, and understanding what’s happening can make it easier to manage.
Let’s dive into what the 12-month sleep regression really is, what signs to look for, and how you can help your baby (and yourself) get through it.
The 12-month sleep regression happens around your baby’s first birthday, typically between 11 and 12 months. It’s a period when their sleep patterns get disrupted due to various developmental changes. You might notice your baby waking up more often at night, refusing naps, or having a hard time falling asleep—even if they were great sleepers before.
This regression is usually caused by the exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) developmental milestones your baby is going through. They’re learning so much, both physically and mentally, and all of that growth can mess with their sleep.
How can you tell if your baby is going through the 12-month sleep regression? Here are some common signs:
There’s a lot going on with your baby around the 12-month mark. Here’s why the 12-month sleep regression happens:
At 12 months, your baby is going through a lot of changes, and these can mess with their sleep. Their brain is growing fast, and they’re learning new things every day. This makes it harder for them to wind down and fall asleep like they used to.
Around this age, babies go through growth spurts, where they grow quickly in a short amount of time. These spurts can lead to more wake-ups at night because their bodies need extra energy (and sometimes more food!). Growth spurts can also make babies a little more restless, which might explain why they wake up more frequently.
Your baby is also learning more about emotions and how the world works. They’re becoming more aware of cause and effect, which means they might wake up and cry for you to see if you’ll come to comfort them. This new understanding can lead to more night wakings or struggles with naps.
By now, your baby is likely working on big milestones like standing, cruising, or even walking. These new physical skills can make them wake up at night because their bodies are busy practicing—even in their sleep! Plus, they might be so excited about their new abilities that they find it harder to settle down.
As babies grow, their sleep needs change too. Around 12 months, some babies start needing less daytime sleep, which might mean transitioning from two naps to one. This shift can throw off their sleep schedule for a while, making naps harder and nights more wakeful.
At this stage, your baby is also becoming more aware of when you’re around and when you’re not. Separation anxiety peaks around this age, so they may wake up at night just to check if you’re nearby. This need for reassurance can lead to more wake-ups during the night.
Teething can cause discomfort, and many babies are getting new teeth around this time. If your baby’s gums are sore, they might wake up more at night because they’re uncomfortable.
The good news is that the 12-month sleep regression is usually temporary. Most babies go through this phase for about 2 to 6 weeks. It might feel like forever while you’re in the middle of it, but remember, it will pass. Your baby is just adjusting to all the new things they’re learning and experiencing.
While you can’t completely avoid the 12-month sleep regression, there are ways to help make it more manageable for both you and your baby. Here are some tips:
Babies thrive on routine. Try to keep their sleep schedule as consistent as possible, with regular nap times and a calming bedtime routine. Even if things get bumpy, the routine will help signal to your baby that it’s time for sleep.
With separation anxiety in full swing, your baby might need a little extra comfort. It’s okay to reassure them, but try to avoid creating habits like rocking or feeding them to sleep every time they wake up. This could make the 12-month sleep regression last longer.
If your baby seems to be transitioning from two naps to one, try adjusting their nap schedule slowly. You might want to shorten the first nap or push it back a little to help ease the change.
If teething is a problem, you can try offering a cool teething ring or talk to your pediatrician about safe pain relief options. A more comfortable baby will likely sleep better.
When your baby wakes up at night, keep the lights low and avoid too much interaction. The goal is to soothe them back to sleep without fully waking them up or making it playtime.
If your baby is waking up hungry, you might want to offer a small snack before bedtime to help them stay full through the night. Just be cautious about creating a habit of nighttime feedings if they no longer need them.
If your baby hasn’t already, this could be a good time to introduce a small comfort object, like a lovey or blanket (safety-approved, of course!). Having something familiar with them during sleep can provide reassurance and help them self-soothe during night wakings.
Make sure your baby gets plenty of physical activity during the day. Letting them burn off energy through crawling, walking, or playing can help tire them out, making it easier for them to settle down for naps and nighttime sleep.
If your baby is having trouble falling asleep on their own, consider using gentle sleep training methods. Techniques like the “Ferber Method” or “Chair Method” can help your baby learn to self-soothe and fall asleep independently, reducing the likelihood of frequent night wakings.
While the 12-month sleep regression is a normal part of your baby’s development, there are times when you might want to reach out for help:
The 12-month sleep regression can feel tough, but remember, it’s a sign that your baby is growing and hitting important milestones. While it’s frustrating in the moment, this phase won’t last forever. With some patience, consistency, and the right strategies, you’ll get through it, and soon enough, your baby will be back to sleeping more soundly.
In the meantime, take care of yourself and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. You’re doing a great job, and both you and your baby are learning and growing together through every challenge!
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