Why Is My 6-Month-Old Waking Multiple Times at Night?

At 6 months, your baby is growing, learning, and developing at a rapid pace—which means their sleep can sometimes take a hit. Maybe they were sleeping well, and now they’re suddenly waking every two hours. Or perhaps bedtime battles and night wakings have become the new norm. If this sounds familiar, don’t worry! You’re not alone. Let’s break down why your little one might be waking frequently and how to gently guide them toward better sleep.

 

What Is the 6-Month Sleep Regression?

The 6-month sleep regression is a temporary period of disrupted sleep due to developmental changes. Around this age, babies are becoming more mobile, practicing new skills, and experiencing big cognitive leaps. All of this can make sleep a little tricky.

Signs of a 6-month sleep regression include:

• More frequent night wakings (even if they previously slept well)
• Increased difficulty falling asleep
• Shorter naps or nap resistance
• More fussiness, especially at night

Not all babies experience a sleep regression at this age, but if your baby is suddenly waking multiple times a night, this could be why.

 

 

 

Is There Really a 6-Month Sleep Regression?

Yes! While not all babies go through a sleep regression at this age, many do. The good news? It’s temporary. Sticking to a consistent bedtime routine and encouraging self-soothing can help get sleep back on track.

 

How Long Does the 6-Month Sleep Regression Last?

Most sleep regressions last 2-6 weeks, depending on how quickly your baby adapts to new skills and how consistent their sleep habits are. If the regression is lasting longer, look at your baby’s sleep associations and 6 month sleep schedule to see if adjustments are needed.

 

 

 

Why Is My 6-Month-Old Waking So Often at Night?

There are several common reasons why a 6-month-old might be waking frequently at night:

1. Not Falling Asleep Independently

If your baby relies on nursing, rocking, or holding to fall asleep, they may struggle to link their sleep cycles at night. This often results in waking every 2 hours looking for the same help to fall back asleep.

2. Hunger or Night Feeds

By 6 months, many babies can sleep longer stretches at night, but some still need one feeding. If your baby wakes every 2 hours and fully feeds each time, they may still need night feedings. However, if they’re just comfort nursing or taking short feeds, it may be more about habit than hunger.

3. Increased Mobility & Development

At this age, babies are learning to roll, sit up, and even push up on their hands and knees. Practicing these skills in the crib can lead to wake-ups. Give your baby plenty of time to practice during the day to help them work through this stage.

4. Teething or Discomfort

Teething can cause fussiness and frequent wake-ups, especially at night. If your baby is suddenly waking up screaming, check for swollen gums or increased drooling. Other causes of discomfort, like gas or reflux, could also be at play.

5. Separation Anxiety

Around this age, some babies start to show signs of separation anxiety. If your baby cries immediately when you leave the room, this could be the reason for their night wakings. Offering comfort without creating new sleep associations is key.

 

 

 

6-Month Sleep Regression Signs

How do you know if your baby is going through a sleep regression? Look for these signs:

• Frequent night wakings (even if they were sleeping well before)
• Shorter naps or nap resistance
• Increased fussiness or clinginess
• Practicing new skills in the crib (rolling, sitting, babbling)

If these symptoms appear suddenly and last for a few weeks, your baby is likely experiencing the 6-month sleep regression.

 

 

Nap Regression: Why Is My 6-Month-Old Fighting Naps?

Naps can also be affected by the 6-month sleep regression. If your baby suddenly won’t nap, is fighting naps, or is taking short naps, it’s likely linked to a combination of:

• Increased wakefulness between naps – Many babies need 2.5-3 hours of awake time before naps at this age.
• Disrupted nighttime sleep – A baby who is overtired from night wakings may struggle to nap well during the day.
• Too much stimulation – If your baby is overstimulated before naptime, winding down with a quiet routine can help.

 

 

FAQs

 

What Causes the 6-Month Sleep Regression?

• Developmental leaps (learning new skills)
• Increased awareness of surroundings
• Teething discomfort
• Hunger or night feeding habits

When Does the 6-Month Sleep Regression Start?

Typically between 5.5 to 6.5 months, but every baby is different.

How Can I Help My Baby Through the 6-Month Sleep Regression?

• Keep wake windows appropriate (2.5-3 hours).
• Offer a consistent bedtime routine.
• Encourage self-soothing skills.
• Practice new skills (rolling, sitting) during the day.
• Provide comfort without creating new sleep associations.