The 12 month sleep regression is a common sleep disruption that affects many infants between the ages of 10 and 18 months. During this time, babies who were previously sleeping well may suddenly start waking up frequently at night, resisting naps, and taking shorter naps. This can be a frustrating and exhausting time for parents, but it is important to remember that sleep regressions are temporary and that there are things you can do to help your baby through them.
There are a few factors that may contribute to the 12 month sleep regression, including developmental changes, teething, and changes in routine. As babies approach their first birthday, they are going through a lot of changes. They are learning new skills, such as walking and talking, and they are also becoming more aware of their surroundings. These changes can make it difficult for them to settle down to sleep.
While the 12 month sleep regression can be a challenging time, there are things you can do to help your baby through it. By understanding the causes of sleep regressions and by using supportive strategies, you can help your baby get back to sleeping well.
12 month sleep regression
Temporary sleep disruption, affects many infants.
- Developmental changes
- Teething
- Changes in routine
- Separation anxiety
- Increased night wakings
- Shorter naps
- Early morning waking
- Resisting bedtime
Can be frustrating and exhausting for parents.
Developmental changes
During the 12 month sleep regression, babies are going through a lot of developmental changes that can affect their sleep. These changes include:
- Increased mobility: Babies who are learning to crawl or walk may be more restless at night as they explore their new abilities. They may also have difficulty staying in their cribs.
Separation anxiety: As babies become more aware of their surroundings, they may start to experience separation anxiety. This can make it difficult for them to fall asleep and stay asleep when they are away from their parents.
Object permanence: Babies who are developing object permanence may start to wake up at night because they think their parents have disappeared. This is because they don't yet understand that their parents still exist even when they can't see them.
Teething: Teething can also be a factor in the 12 month sleep regression. The pain and discomfort of teething can make it difficult for babies to sleep.
These developmental changes are all normal and temporary, but they can make it difficult for babies to sleep. By understanding these changes, you can be more supportive of your baby during the 12 month sleep regression.
Teething
Teething is another common factor that can contribute to the 12 month sleep regression. When babies' teeth start to come in, they may experience pain, discomfort, and inflammation. This can make it difficult for them to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Symptoms of teething: Common symptoms of teething include drooling, fussiness, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and decreased appetite.
Teething pain: Teething pain can be sharp, throbbing, or aching. It can also cause a feeling of pressure or fullness in the gums.
Impact on sleep: Teething pain can make it difficult for babies to fall asleep and stay asleep. They may wake up frequently at night, crying or fussing.
Managing teething pain: There are a number of things you can do to help manage teething pain, such as giving your baby a teething ring, massaging their gums, or giving them a pain reliever.
If you think your baby is teething, talk to your doctor about ways to manage their pain and discomfort. You can also try some of the following tips to help your baby sleep better during the 12 month sleep regression:
- Establish a regular bedtime routine.
Make sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Avoid giving your baby caffeine or sugar before bed.
Try using a white noise machine or fan to help block out noise.
Be patient and supportive. The 12 month sleep regression is temporary, and your baby will eventually get back to sleeping well.
Changes in routine
Changes in routine can also contribute to the 12 month sleep regression. Babies thrive on routine, and any changes to their usual schedule can disrupt their sleep. Some common changes in routine that can affect sleep include:
- Starting daycare or preschool: Starting daycare or preschool can be a big change for babies. They may have to adjust to a new environment, new people, and a new schedule. This can make it difficult for them to fall asleep and stay asleep at night.
Traveling: Traveling can also disrupt babies' sleep routines. They may have to sleep in a different bed, in a different room, or even in a different country. This can make it difficult for them to feel comfortable and settled at bedtime.
Changes to nap schedule: As babies get older, they may start to need fewer naps during the day. This can disrupt their sleep rhythm and make it difficult for them to fall asleep at night.
Changes to bedtime routine: Changes to the bedtime routine, such as starting it later or ending it earlier, can also disrupt babies' sleep. It is important to keep the bedtime routine as consistent as possible, even during the 12 month sleep regression.
If you are planning any changes to your baby's routine, it is important to do so gradually. This will give your baby time to adjust and will help to minimize the impact on their sleep.
Separation anxiety
Separation anxiety is a common cause of sleep problems in babies and toddlers. It typically starts around 8 to 12 months of age, and it can peak during the 12 month sleep regression. Separation anxiety can make it difficult for babies to fall asleep and stay asleep, especially when they are away from their parents.
- Symptoms of separation anxiety: Common symptoms of separation anxiety include crying, clinging, and tantrums when a parent leaves the room. Babies with separation anxiety may also have difficulty sleeping, eating, and playing.
Causes of separation anxiety: Separation anxiety is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including developmental changes, changes in routine, and stressful life events. As babies become more aware of their surroundings, they may start to worry about being separated from their parents.
Impact on sleep: Separation anxiety can make it difficult for babies to fall asleep and stay asleep. They may wake up frequently at night, crying or fussing. They may also be reluctant to go to bed in their own room.
Managing separation anxiety: There are a number of things you can do to help manage separation anxiety and improve your baby's sleep. These include:
- Gradually increasing the amount of time you spend away from your baby.
Creating a consistent bedtime routine.
Making sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Avoiding giving your baby caffeine or sugar before bed.
Being patient and supportive.
Separation anxiety is a normal part of development, and it usually goes away on its own within a few months. However, if you are concerned about your baby's separation anxiety, talk to your doctor.
Increased night wakings
One of the most common symptoms of the 12 month sleep regression is increased night wakings. Babies who were previously sleeping through the night may suddenly start waking up multiple times a night. This can be very frustrating for parents, especially if they are already sleep-deprived.
- Causes of increased night wakings: There are a number of factors that can contribute to increased night wakings during the 12 month sleep regression, including:
- Developmental changes
- Teething
- Changes in routine
- Separation anxiety
- Hunger
- Wet diaper
- Nightmares
How to handle increased night wakings: When your baby wakes up at night, it is important to stay calm and avoid turning on the lights or playing with them. This will only make it more difficult for them to fall back asleep. Instead, try the following:
- Pat your baby's back or rub their tummy.
Sing them a lullaby.
Offer them a pacifier.
If your baby is hungry, offer them a small snack.
If your baby's diaper is wet, change it.
When to seek help: If your baby is waking up more than three times a night for more than two weeks, it is important to talk to your doctor. There may be an underlying medical condition that is causing the night wakings.
Increased night wakings are a common problem during the 12 month sleep regression, but they are usually temporary. With patience and consistency, you can help your baby get back to sleeping through the night.
Shorter naps
Another common symptom of the 12 month sleep regression is shorter naps. Babies who were previously taking long naps may suddenly start taking shorter naps, or they may even stop napping altogether. This can make it difficult for parents to get anything done during the day, and it can also lead to overtired babies who are more likely to have difficulty sleeping at night.
- Causes of shorter naps: There are a number of factors that can contribute to shorter naps during the 12 month sleep regression, including:
- Developmental changes
- Teething
- Changes in routine
- Separation anxiety
- Overtiredness
- Napping in a noisy or bright environment
How to handle shorter naps: If your baby is taking shorter naps, there are a few things you can do to help them get back to taking longer naps:
- Make sure your baby is getting enough sleep at night.
Create a consistent naptime routine.
Make sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Avoid waking your baby up from their nap.
If your baby is overtired, try putting them down for a nap sooner.
When to seek help: If your baby is consistently taking naps that are less than 30 minutes long, it is important to talk to your doctor. There may be an underlying medical condition that is causing the short naps.
Shorter naps are a common problem during the 12 month sleep regression, but they are usually temporary. With patience and consistency, you can help your baby get back to taking longer naps.
Early morning waking
Early morning waking is another common symptom of the 12 month sleep regression. Babies who were previously sleeping until 6 or 7am may suddenly start waking up at 5am or even earlier. This can be very difficult for parents, especially if they have to get up for work early.
- Causes of early morning waking: There are a number of factors that can contribute to early morning waking during the 12 month sleep regression, including:
- Changes in routine
- Separation anxiety
- Hunger
- Wet diaper
- Overtiredness
- Napping too much during the day
- Going to bed too late
How to handle early morning waking: If your baby is waking up early in the morning, there are a few things you can do to help them get back to sleeping later:
- Make sure your baby is getting enough sleep at night.
Create a consistent bedtime routine.
Make sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Avoid waking your baby up in the morning.
If your baby is hungry, offer them a small snack.
If your baby's diaper is wet, change it.
Try putting your baby down for a nap sooner in the afternoon.
Avoid putting your baby down for a nap too close to bedtime.
When to seek help: If your baby is consistently waking up more than an hour before their usual wake time, it is important to talk to your doctor. There may be an underlying medical condition that is causing the early morning waking.
Early morning waking is a common problem during the 12 month sleep regression, but it is usually temporary. With patience and consistency, you can help your baby get back to sleeping until a more reasonable hour.
Resisting bedtime
Resisting bedtime is another common symptom of the 12 month sleep regression. Babies who were previously going to bed easily may suddenly start fighting bedtime. They may cry, scream, or even try to run away. This can be very frustrating for parents, especially if they are already exhausted from a long day.
- Causes of resisting bedtime: There are a number of factors that can contribute to resisting bedtime during the 12 month sleep regression, including:
- Developmental changes
- Teething
- Separation anxiety
- Overtiredness
- Inconsistent bedtime routine
- Exciting or stimulating activities before bed
How to handle resisting bedtime: If your baby is resisting bedtime, there are a few things you can do to help them get to sleep:
- Create a consistent bedtime routine.
Make sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Avoid giving your baby caffeine or sugar before bed.
Try to put your baby down for bed when they are drowsy but still awake.
Be patient and consistent. It may take some time for your baby to adjust to the new bedtime routine.
When to seek help: If your baby is consistently resisting bedtime for more than two weeks, it is important to talk to your doctor. There may be an underlying medical condition that is causing the bedtime resistance.
Resisting bedtime is a common problem during the 12 month sleep regression, but it is usually temporary. With patience and consistency, you can help your baby get back to going to bed easily.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the 12 month sleep regression:
Question 1: What is the 12 month sleep regression?
Answer 1: The 12 month sleep regression is a common sleep disruption that affects many infants between the ages of 10 and 18 months. During this time, babies who were previously sleeping well may suddenly start waking up frequently at night, resisting naps, and taking shorter naps.
Question 2: What causes the 12 month sleep regression?
Answer 2: There are a number of factors that may contribute to the 12 month sleep regression, including developmental changes, teething, and changes in routine.
Question 3: How long does the 12 month sleep regression last?
Answer 3: The 12 month sleep regression typically lasts for 2 to 6 weeks, but it can sometimes last longer.
Question 4: How can I help my baby through the 12 month sleep regression?
Answer 4: There are a number of things you can do to help your baby through the 12 month sleep regression, including:
- Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine
Making sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool
Avoiding giving your baby caffeine or sugar before bed
Being patient and supportive
Question 5: When should I seek help for my baby's sleep problems?
Answer 5: If your baby is consistently waking up more than three times a night, taking naps that are less than 30 minutes long, or resisting bedtime for more than two weeks, it is important to talk to your doctor. There may be an underlying medical condition that is causing the sleep problems.
Question 6: Is there anything I can do to prevent the 12 month sleep regression?
Answer 6: There is no surefire way to prevent the 12 month sleep regression, but there are a few things you can do to help your baby transition more easily, such as:
- Gradually transitioning your baby to a new bedtime routine a few weeks before they turn 12 months old
Making sure your baby is getting enough sleep during the day
Avoiding overstimulating your baby before bed
Question 7: What are some tips for coping with the 12 month sleep regression?
Answer 7: Here are some tips for coping with the 12 month sleep regression:
- Be patient and supportive. This is a temporary phase and your baby will eventually get back to sleeping well.
Take turns sleeping with your baby if you need to.
Try to get as much sleep as you can during the day.
Talk to your doctor or a sleep consultant if you are struggling to cope with the sleep regression.
Remember, the 12 month sleep regression is a temporary phase. With patience and consistency, you can help your baby get through it and back to sleeping well.
Tips
Here are some tips for coping with the 12 month sleep regression:
Tip 1: Maintain a consistent bedtime routine.
A consistent bedtime routine will help your baby to learn that it is time to sleep. Start the routine about 30 minutes before bedtime and include activities such as taking a bath, reading a book, and singing a lullaby.
Tip 2: Make sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Your baby will sleep best in a dark, quiet, and cool room. Use blackout curtains to block out light, use a white noise machine to block out noise, and keep the temperature in the room between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tip 3: Avoid giving your baby caffeine or sugar before bed.
Caffeine and sugar can interfere with sleep. Avoid giving your baby any food or drinks that contain caffeine or sugar in the hours leading up to bedtime.
Tip 4: Be patient and supportive.
The 12 month sleep regression is a temporary phase. It is important to be patient and supportive during this time. Your baby will eventually get back to sleeping well.
Tip 5: Talk to your doctor or a sleep consultant.
If you are struggling to cope with the 12 month sleep regression, talk to your doctor or a sleep consultant. They can provide you with additional support and guidance.
Remember, the 12 month sleep regression is a temporary phase. With patience and consistency, you can help your baby get through it and back to sleeping well.
Conclusion
The 12 month sleep regression is a common sleep disruption that affects many infants between the ages of 10 and 18 months. During this time, babies who were previously sleeping well may suddenly start waking up frequently at night, resisting naps, and taking shorter naps. This can be a frustrating and exhausting time for parents, but it is important to remember that sleep regressions are temporary and that there are things you can do to help your baby through them.
The main points to remember about the 12 month sleep regression are:
- It is a temporary phase that typically lasts for 2 to 6 weeks.
It is caused by a number of factors, including developmental changes, teething, and changes in routine.
There are a number of things you can do to help your baby through the sleep regression, such as maintaining a consistent bedtime routine, making sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool, and avoiding giving your baby caffeine or sugar before bed.
If you are struggling to cope with the sleep regression, talk to your doctor or a sleep consultant.
Remember, the 12 month sleep regression is a temporary phase. With patience and consistency, you can help your baby get through it and back to sleeping well.