4 Month Sleep Regression – Tips to Soothe your Baby

The 4-month sleep regression is a normal, temporary phase in your baby’s development. It occurs as their sleep cycles mature, leading to lighter sleep, frequent wake-ups, and increased fussiness. While exhausting, it’s an opportunity to establish healthy sleep habits and teach your baby independent sleep skills.

Key Points:

• Duration: Typically 2–6 weeks.
• Causes: Developmental changes, teething, growth spurts, and “Leap 4.”
• Signs: Night wakings, disrupted naps, fussiness, and resistance to sleep.
• What Helps: Consistent routines, wake windows, gentle comfort, and patience.
• Tips for Parents: Rest when possible, take breaks, and don’t stress about temporary sleep aids

What is the 4 Month Sleep Regression?

 

At around 4 months, your baby may begin waking more frequently during the night. This stage, known as the four-month sleep regression, often coincides with major developmental milestones. While it can feel exhausting, this is a sign that your baby’s sleep patterns are maturing.

During this period, their sleep cycles evolve, introducing lighter sleep stages that can lead to more frequent wake-ups. While newborn sleep tends to be deep and uninterrupted, babies at this stage spend more time transitioning between cycles of light and deep sleep. This maturation is a positive development but can temporarily disrupt nighttime sleep.

In some cases, these sleep disruptions can extend into what some parents refer to as a 4 to 5 month sleep regression, as the adjustments carry into the fifth month.

 

What Does Sleep Regression Mean?

Sleep regression refers to a developmental phase where a baby’s sleep pattern is disrupted due to significant cognitive, physical, or emotional changes. These regressions often coincide with milestones such as learning new skills, changes in the sleep cycle, or adjusting to new sleep schedules.

Kim Says: “The four-month sleep regression is one of the first major sleep hurdles for parents. While it’s frustrating, it’s actually a sign of your baby’s development as they transition to more adult-like sleep patterns. This phase is an opportunity to build a foundation for healthy sleep habits.”

Can the 4 Month Regression Start Earlier?

Yes, it can. Some parents report symptoms as early as 3 months or even sooner. Frequent night wakings, shorter naps, and fussiness may indicate an early onset of the four-month sleep regression. Remember, these changes are not permanent—your baby is adjusting to new sleep patterns related to developmental milestones. Staying consistent with routines and offering extra comfort can help both of you navigate this early phase.

 

 

Signs of the 4 Month Sleep Regression

Wondering if your baby is experiencing the four-month sleep regression? Here are some common signs:

• Frequent night wakings
• Difficulty falling asleep
• Increased fussiness and fretfulness
• Shorter, disrupted naps
• Daytime distractions during feedings
• Restless, lighter sleep

Teething can begin as early as 4 months and may contribute to sleep disruptions. Signs of teething include drooling, chewing on objects, and gum sensitivity. The discomfort can make it harder for babies to fall and stay asleep, especially during naps.

Kim Says:

“Teething often overlaps with sleep regressions, adding to the challenge. Offering a chilled teether or gently rubbing their gums can ease their discomfort and help them rest.”

What’s Drowsy But Awake?
Read: Drowsy But Awake — The Cornerstone of Successful Sleep Training

Why is My 4-Month-Old So Fussy?

Around 4 months, babies can become unusually fussy due to developmental changes, sleep disruptions, and growth spurts. This stage often coincides with the 4-month sleep regression, when they are adjusting to new sleep patterns and becoming more aware of their environment. Teething and increased hunger during growth spurts can also make babies fussier during the day and night.

Kim Says “It’s common for 4-month-olds to experience fussiness as they adjust to a more mature sleep schedule and developmental leaps. This phase can feel overwhelming, but it’s temporary—patience and consistency are key.”

Need some guidance with your flexible schedule?
Read: Sample Schedules: Sleep and Naps From 6 Months to Preschool

 

 

Symptoms of 4 Month Sleep Regression

 

 

 

Sign	Description
Waking in the night	Frequent awakenings after previously consistent night sleep.
Shorter naps	Daytime sleep becomes less restful and shorter.
Increased fussiness	General irritability and difficulty calming down.
Resisting sleep unless held	Difficulty falling asleep without a sleep prop like rocking or holding.
Longer time to fall asleep	Taking longer than 20 minutes to fall asleep.
Unpredictable sleep patterns	Overall disrupted and irregular sleep patterns.

 

 

 

It’s not uncommon for babies to wake up crying or even screaming during this regression. These behaviors are often due to the changes in sleep cycles, hunger from growth spurts, or difficulty transitioning between sleep stages.

Kim Say: “Waking up crying can feel alarming, but it’s often a baby’s way of signaling they need help transitioning to the next sleep stage. Reassuring them with a soothing voice or gentle touch can help.”

4-month-olds to cry or wake up screaming at night during the regression. This behavior is often linked to difficulty transitioning between sleep cycles, discomfort from teething, or hunger due to growth spurts. These changes can make your baby more sensitive and in need of comfort during the night.

Kim Says:

“Crying at night can be stressful for parents, but it’s your baby’s way of signaling their needs. Offering gentle reassurance without creating new sleep associations can help them feel safe and settle more easily.”

Causes of the 4 Month Sleep Regression

The 4-month sleep regression occurs due to a combination of physical and neurological changes as your baby’s sleep cycles evolve. Here’s what makes this stage a sleep disruptor:

• Developmental Changes: Around 3 to 4 months, your baby’s body begins producing melatonin and establishing a circadian rhythm, often referred to as the internal body clock. This shift introduces more mature sleep cycles, including REM sleep, which can lead to more frequent wake-ups.
• Reverse Cycling: Growth spurts and distracted daytime feedings can lead to nighttime hunger, known as reverse cycling.

Kim West Says: “Some parents find cluster feeding or dream feeds helpful during this time. However, it’s essential to gently address feeding as a sleep association by gradually reducing nighttime feeds. This approach helps your baby learn to sleep more independently over time while ensuring they receive adequate nutrition during the day.”

• Environmental Awareness: Babies become more aware of their surroundings, which can cause disruptions if their environment changes between sleep cycles. Keeping a consistent sleep environment can help reduce sleep disruptions.
• New Skills: Rolling, babbling, and improving hand-eye coordination can disrupt sleep as babies want to practice these exciting new abilities at night.

 

At this age, babies often experience a growth spurt that increases their calorie needs and affects their sleep. Additionally, they are going through “Leap 4,” a stage of rapid mental development described in the Wonder Weeks framework. During this time, they are mastering new skills like improved hand-eye coordination, which can lead to increased clinginess and disrupted sleep.

 

Kim Says: “Leap 4 is an exciting but exhausting time for babies and parents. You may notice your baby practicing new skills like rolling or grabbing objects—and needing more comfort as they adjust to these big changes.

 

Many parents notice a temporary decrease in milk intake around this age. This can happen due to teething discomfort, increased distraction during feedings, or reverse cycling—when babies eat more at night due to disrupted sleep patterns.

 

Kim Says: “Try feeding your baby in a quiet, dimly lit room to minimize distractions. If you’re concerned about their intake, consult your pediatrician.”

 

The 4-month sleep regression often overlaps with growth spurts. During these times, babies may wake more frequently to eat as their bodies require additional calories for development. This can also make them fussier during the day.

 

Kim Says:“Growth spurts are part of the amazing process of your baby’s development. While they may disrupt sleep, they’re a sign your baby is growing and thriving.”

Does the 4 Month Sleep Regression Affect Naps?

Absolutely. If your baby used to be a good napper, you might now find them resisting or struggling to nap. Naps often become shorter or inconsistent during this regression.

Tips for Nap Resistance:

• Create a predictable nap schedule based on their tiredness cues.
• Focus on gradually improving crib naps using consistent nap schedules and tiredness cues.

Kim Says: “While occasional contact naps may provide temporary relief, building sustainable nap habits through gentle sleep coaching will establish more consistent and restorative sleep patterns.”

 

Babies fighting sleep or naps is a hallmark of the 4-month sleep regression. As their circadian rhythm develops and they become more aware of their surroundings, it can be harder for them to settle. This resistance often stems from being overtired or under-tired due to incorrect wake windows.

Kim Says:“If your baby is fighting naps or bedtime, check their wake windows. At 4 months, they typically need 1.5–2.5 hours of awake time before their next nap.”

 

At 4 months, aim for wake windows between 90 and 120 minutes, starting with shorter windows in the morning and gradually extending them by bedtime.

 

Age	Recommended Wake Windows
3–4 months	90–120 minutes
4–5 months	1.5–2.5 hours

 

 

Healthy Sleep Habits for Your Baby

Establishing healthy sleep habits early can set the foundation for better sleep during and after the 4-month regression. These include:

• Consistent Bedtime Routine: A calming routine signals to your baby that it is time to wind down. This might include a warm bath, a soothing story, and a sleep sack for comfort.
• Encouraging Self-Soothing: Help your baby develop the ability to fall asleep independently by placing them in their crib drowsy but awake.

Kim Says: “Gentle sleep coaching methods, like the Sleep Lady Shuffle, can guide your baby through this process with reassurance and comfort.”

• Avoiding Sleep Props: Reduce reliance on sleep props like rocking or feeding to sleep, as these can become sleep crutches that make it harder for your baby to link sleep cycles.

 

How to Soothe Your Baby During Sleep Regression

Here are some strategies that can help:

• Stick to a Routine: A consistent baby sleep schedule helps your baby feel secure and ready for rest.
• Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Use blackout curtains and white noise to block out distractions, promoting deeper and longer nighttime sleep.
• Provide Comfort: Reassure your baby during wake-ups with a gentle voice or touch to help them settle back to sleep.
• Encourage Longer Naps: Watch for signs of sleepiness and stick to a predictable nap schedule to improve daytime sleep quality.

 

At 4 months, babies typically need 12–16 hours of total sleep in 24 hours. This includes 10–12 hours of nighttime sleep (not necessarily uninterrupted) and 2–4 hours of naps across 3–4 daytime sleep periods. While some babies may achieve longer stretches of sleep at night, it’s normal for them to wake every 3–4 hours for feeding or comfort.

 

Kim Says: “Parents often worry their baby isn’t sleeping enough, but remember that fragmented sleep at 4 months is typical. Focus on total daily sleep rather than expecting full nights at this stage.”

 

How to Survive the 4 Month Sleep Regression

1. Maintain Consistency: Keep meal and play times consistent to reinforce your baby’s sleep schedule.
2. Focus on Independent Sleep: Gradually reduce intervention during nighttime wake-ups while providing reassurance through methods like the Sleep Lady Shuffle.
3. Monitor Wake Windows: Avoid overtiredness by adjusting wake windows to match your baby’s needs.
4. Be Patient: Sleep problems during this phase are temporary. With time and consistency, your baby’s sleep will improve.

Kim West Says: “The 4-month sleep regression is tough, but it doesn’t last forever. By staying consistent and encouraging self-soothing, you’re setting your baby up for long-term sleep success.”

 

During the 4-month sleep regression, it’s okay to rely on temporary measures like rocking, feeding, or holding your baby to sleep. While these might seem like “bad habits,” they can help both you and your baby get much-needed rest during this short phase.

 

Kim Says:“Parents worry about creating sleep crutches, but don’t stress too much during regressions. Focus on what works now, and you can gently transition to independent sleep skills once the regression passes.”

 

Addressing Sleep Associations and Problems

 

What is a Sleep Association?

 

A sleep association refers to habits or conditions a baby relies on to fall asleep, such as rocking, feeding, or a pacifier. While these are comforting, they can turn into sleep props that make independent sleep challenging.

 

Kim Says: “Sleep associations can be tricky to navigate. The goal is to gently transition your baby from relying on you to fall asleep to developing their own ability to self-soothe. This process requires patience and consistency.”

How to Address Sleep Problems:

 

• Gradually replace sleep associations with independent sleep skills.
• Use gentle sleep coaching techniques, such as gradually reducing the time spent rocking or feeding your baby to sleep.

Kim Says: “Remember, change doesn’t happen overnight. With small steps and a lot of love, your baby will learn new sleep habits.”

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Self-Care Tips for Parents

 

Sleep deprivation during the four-month regression can feel overwhelming. Here are some ways to care for yourself:

 

• Take Breaks: Share nighttime duties with your partner or family.
• Rest When Possible: Use your baby’s short nap times to catch up on rest during the day. Sharing nighttime duties with your partner or other family members can also help reduce exhaustion and ensure everyone gets the rest they need to navigate this phase.
• Reach Out: Consult a sleep consultant or sleep expert if needed to develop a personalized plan.

Kim Says: “Parenting through sleep regressions is exhausting, but you can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritize rest whenever possible and lean on your support system.”

 

Can I Sleep Train During the 4 Month Sleep Regression?

 

While some experts suggest that sleep training can begin during the 4-month regression, Kim West, The Sleep Lady®, recommends waiting until your baby is well-rested and past the acute phase of the regression. This timing ensures that your baby is better prepared to adapt to new routines and independent sleep skills, setting both of you up for greater success.

 

Kim Says: “Starting sleep training when your baby is ready—both physically and emotionally—is crucial. Watch for signs of readiness, like being well-rested and in a stable routine, before beginning.”

 

What’s Next? Preparing for Future Sleep Challenges

As your baby grows, you may encounter other sleep disruptions beyond the four-month sleep regression. These challenges are often referred to as sleep regressions at 6 months, 8–10 months, and beyond. Building strong sleep habits during the 4-month regression lays the groundwork for navigating future hurdles with confidence.

 

Steps to Prepare:

• Maintain a Consistent Routine: As your baby’s developmental needs change, sticking to a consistent bedtime and nap schedule will provide a sense of security.
• Encourage Independent Sleep Skills: Continuing to reinforce self-soothing techniques will help your baby adapt to changes in their sleep cycles over time.
• Adjust Sleep Schedules Gradually: As your baby grows, their wake windows and sleep needs will evolve. Monitor these changes to ensure they’re getting the right balance of daytime sleep and nighttime sleep.

Kim Says: “Future sleep challenges will come, but the habits you build now will give you and your baby a strong foundation to handle them. Consistency is your best friend.”

If sleep problems persist beyond typical developmental phases, consulting a sleep expert or pediatrician can help uncover potential underlying causes.

 

 

Common Sleep Coaching Methods

 

If your baby continues to struggle with disrupted sleep patterns, you may want to consider sleep coaching your 4 month old. Sleep coaching involves techniques designed to teach your baby independent sleep skills while reducing reliance on sleep props like rocking or feeding to sleep. Kim West’s Sleep Lady Shuffle is a gentle sleep coaching method that involves staying with your baby and offering reassurance as they learn to self-soothe, gradually building independent sleep skills.

 

 

Popular Sleep Coaching Techniques

 

 

When it comes to sleep coaching, different methods work for different families. Kim West, The Sleep Lady®, strongly advocates for gentle approaches that prioritize reassurance and gradual transitions, such as her signature Sleep Lady Shuffle. Here’s how this method compares to other popular techniques:

 

 

• The Sleep Lady Shuffle: Kim’s method involves staying with your baby and offering physical and verbal reassurance as they learn to fall asleep independently. Over time, parents gradually move farther away from the crib until their baby can fall asleep on their own. This method is designed to minimize crying and foster a secure attachment while teaching sleep skills.

 

• The Chair Method: This approach involves gradually reducing your presence near the crib each night. Parents begin by sitting close to the crib and then slowly moving farther away until the baby can fall asleep without assistance. While this method shares similarities with the Shuffle, it may involve less ongoing reassurance.

 

• Gentle Withdrawal: In this method, parents reduce their involvement in helping the baby fall asleep. This might involve less rocking or patting each night until the baby no longer needs these interventions.

 

• The Ferber Method: Also known as “timed check-ins,” this method involves leaving the baby to self-soothe for increasing intervals of time before offering brief reassurance. While effective for some families, it typically involves more crying and is not recommended by Kim West for parents seeking a gentler approach.

 

Kim Says: “Every baby is different, and the best method is the one that works for your family. If you prefer a compassionate approach that supports attachment, the Sleep Lady Shuffle may be the perfect fit.”

 

Sleep coaching works best when combined with healthy sleep habits and a consistent baby sleep schedule. Kim emphasizes that the best sleep coaching method is the one that aligns with your baby’s temperament and your parenting style.

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Addressing Sleep Deprivation for Parents

 

 

The four-month sleep regression doesn’t just disrupt your baby’s sleep—it affects your rest too. Sleep deprivation can leave parents feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. Here are some ways to cope during this challenging phase:

• Practice Restorative Sleep: Use your baby’s short nap times to catch up on rest during the day. Even brief moments of relaxation can help.
• Delegate Responsibilities: Share nighttime duties with a partner or family member to ensure you both get periods of uninterrupted sleep.
• Seek Support: A sleep consultant or parenting support group can provide advice and encouragement tailored to your situation.

Kim Says: “Don’t underestimate the power of teamwork and rest. Even a 20-minute nap can make a big difference in how you feel.”

Remember, disrupted sleep is temporary. With time, your baby’s sleep cycle will stabilize, allowing everyone to get better rest.

Final Encouragement for Parents

 

 

The 4-month sleep regression is a milestone that signifies your baby’s growth and development. While it can be tiring, it’s also a chance to establish healthy sleep habits that will benefit your baby for years to come. Be patient with yourself and your baby during this adjustment period. If challenges persist, don’t hesitate to reach out to a pediatrician or sleep expert for guidance.

 

 

Kim Says: “You’re doing an amazing job. This phase will pass, and both you and your baby will come out stronger on the other side. Better sleep is on the horizon.”

It’s easy to feel like you’ve done something wrong if your baby suddenly stops sleeping well. However, the 4-month sleep regression is a normal and expected phase in their development. Remind yourself that this phase is temporary and doesn’t reflect your parenting skills.

 

 

Kim Says:

“This regression can make even the calmest parents feel frustrated or self-doubting, but it’s important to remember this is a natural milestone. You’re doing an amazing job.”

 

 

FAQ

Q: Can the 4-Month Regression Start Early?

A: Yes, it can start as early as 3 months. Every baby is unique, so early signs are not uncommon.

Q: Should I Feed My Baby at Night During the Regression?

A: Yes, night feedings may still be appropriate during this stage if your baby wakes up hungry. Kim West, The Sleep Lady®, recommends ensuring your baby is consuming enough calories during the day and working toward gradually reducing night feeds as part of a structured plan. Consult your pediatrician to ensure readiness for this transition.

Q: How Do I Know if It’s Sleep Regression?

A: If your baby has sudden sleep disruptions around 3-4 months, like frequent night wakings and shorter naps, it’s likely a sleep regression.

Q: Can I Prevent the 4-Month Sleep Regression?

A: No, the 4-month sleep regression is tied to natural development. However, establishing a strong sleep foundation with consistent routines and addressing sleep associations before this phase can help your baby transition more smoothly.

 

Citations

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• SADEH, A., MINDELL, J.A., LUEDTKE, K. and WIEGAND, B. (2009), Sleep and sleep ecology in the first 3 years: a web-based study. Journal of Sleep Research, 18: 60-73. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2869.2008.00699.x
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• Rivkees, Scott A. “The Development of Circadian Rhythms: From Animals To Humans.” Sleep medicine clinics vol. 2,3 (2007): 331-341. doi:10.1016/j.jsmc.2007.05.010
• Nikolopoulou, M., & James-Roberts, I. (2003). Preventing sleeping problems in infants who are at risk of developing them. Archives of Disease in Childhood, 88, 108 – 111. https://doi.org/10.1136/adc.88.2.108.
• Stanford Children’s Health. “Infant Sleep.” Stanford Medicine, 2019. https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=infant-sleep-90-P02237.
• Galland, B., Taylor, B., Elder, D., & Herbison, P. (2012). Normal sleep patterns in infants and children: a systematic review of observational studies.. Sleep medicine reviews, 16 3, 213-22 . https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2011.06.001.
• D’Agostino, J. (2010). An evidentiary review regarding the use of chronological and adjusted age in the assessment of preterm infants.. Journal for specialists in pediatric nursing : JSPN, 15 1, 26-32 . https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1744-6155.2009.00215.x.
• Cleveland Clinic. “Infant Sleep Regression: What Parents Need To Know” https://health.clevelandclinic.org/the-4-month-sleep-regression-what-parents-need-to-know
• P. Devnani. “Paediatric sleep medicine.” The Indian Journal of Sleep Medicine, 5 (2010): 105-110. https://doi.org/10.5005/IJSM-5-4-105.