Sleep Training and Sleep Regression
Sleep regressions are natural and often coincide with developmental milestones or significant transitions in your baby’s life. Although these phases can temporarily disrupt sleep, gentle sleep training methods can help restore healthy sleep habits.
General Sleep Training During Regression
Can You Sleep Train a Baby Going Through a Sleep Regression?
Yes, but it requires patience and flexibility. During sleep regressions, your baby may experience increased night wakings or difficulty falling asleep due to developmental leaps, teething, or separation anxiety. Here’s how to navigate this challenging period:
- Stick to Gentle Sleep Training Methods: Routines like the Sleep Lady Shuffle let you stay present and responsive while gradually encouraging self-soothing.
- Be Realistic: Progress may slow down during a regression, but focus on maintaining good habits rather than seeking perfection.
Regression After Sleep Training
What If Your Sleep-Trained Baby Starts Regressing?
Even a sleep-trained baby can temporarily regress due to factors like illness, teething, travel, or developmental changes. This is normal and does not mean your previous efforts have failed.
- Revisit Your Method: Use the same sleep coaching strategies that worked previously, such as gradually reinforcing the self-soothing skills they’ve already learned.
- Offer Comfort Temporarily: Adjusting your approach slightly to provide extra reassurance during regressions won’t undo your progress.
Timing Sleep Training During a Regression
Should You Start Sleep Training During a Regression?
It’s possible to begin sleep training during a regression, but it can be more challenging. Your baby’s developmental changes may heighten crying or clinginess.
- When to Wait: If you can, wait until the regression subsides to start sleep training. This minimizes the added stress of managing both challenges simultaneously.
- If You Start During a Regression: Stay consistent and gentle. Avoid creating new sleep associations, like rocking or feeding to sleep, as these can become habits that persist beyond the regression.
Crying or Waking Post Sleep Training
Why Is My Sleep-Trained Baby Crying Again?
Occasional periods of crying or waking at night are common, even after successful sleep training. Common triggers include:
- Developmental Milestones: Skills like crawling or walking can temporarily disrupt sleep patterns.
- Illness or Teething: Physical discomfort can make it harder for your baby to settle.
- Separation Anxiety: Peaks in separation anxiety often occur around 8–10 months and again at 18 months.
How to Handle It:
- Reapply the techniques you used during initial sleep training.
- Offer brief reassurance, but stick to the boundaries you’ve established.
Why Is My Sleep-Trained Baby Waking Suddenly?
Night wakings can also result from:
- Temporary disruptions, such as illness or travel.
- Heightened awareness or a greater need for comfort during developmental phases.
What to Do:
- Maintain your established sleep routine.
- If discomfort (e.g., teething) is the issue, address it while keeping the sleep environment and habits consistent.
Kim’s Perspective
Sleep regressions and occasional wake-ups after sleep training are natural parts of your baby’s sleep journey. The key is to stay consistent with your methods, use gentle coaching, and remain responsive to your baby’s needs. Progress is rarely linear, but with patience and love, you’ll guide your baby back to restful sleep
