Developmental Milestones and Baby Sleep

The journey of parenthood is an amazing one, filled with joy, challenges, and, of course, some sleepless nights. One aspect that often disrupts baby sleep patterns is developmental milestones. These are exciting markers in your baby’s growth, but they can lead to occasional sleep regressions. Let’s explore important developmental milestones, when they typically occur, and how to handle sleep regressions caused by these significant steps in your baby’s development.

Understanding Developmental Milestones:

Developmental milestones are key achievements in a baby’s physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. They mark progress in areas like motor skills, language acquisition, and social interaction. Here are some of the most important developmental milestones and when they typically occur:

• Rolling Over: Around 2-4 months, babies start rolling from tummy to back and vice versa.
• Sitting Up: Between 4-7 months, babies gain the ability to sit up with support and eventually on their own.
• Crawling: Typically occurring between 6-10 months, crawling is a major milestone in mobility.
• Teething: Teething often starts around 4-7 months and will continue into the toddler years.
• Speech Development: Babies begin to babble around 6-9 months, with their first words usually emerging around 12 months.
• Pulling Up: Babies start pulling themselves up to stand around 8-10 months.
• Walking: Most babies take their first steps between 9-12 months, although it can vary widely.
• Cognitive Leaps: Cognitive milestones, like object permanence (understanding that things still exist even when they can’t see them), occur around 8-12 months.
• Social and Emotional Development: Babies start to show attachment and separation anxiety around 6-9 months. Another separation anxiety peak occurs at around 18 months.

When Do Sleep Regressions Happen?

Sleep regressions are periods when a baby who previously slept well begins to experience disruptions in their sleep patterns. Here’s when you can expect some of these sleep disturbances:

• 4-Month Sleep Regression: Around 3-5 months, many babies experience the 4-month sleep regression. This is often linked to their developing sleep cycles, which become more adult-like. They may begin waking every 2-4 hours during the night and catnapping during the day.
• 8-10 Month Sleep Regression: As babies become more mobile and work on milestones like crawling and pulling up to stand, they might have difficulty settling down to sleep. Laying down in the dark is a brand new skill for them to learn! Separation anxiety can also contribute to this regression.
• 12-Month Sleep Regression: As your baby’s language skills develop, they may start babbling or talking in their sleep, which can lead to nighttime awakenings. You may notice waking in the early hours of the morning, so they can practice their new skill!
• 18-Month Sleep Regression: This regression is often tied to the cognitive leaps happening around this age. Your toddler may become more aware of their surroundings, have separation anxiety, and may resist bedtime or wake during the night wanting comfort.
• 2-Year Sleep Regression: Around 2 years old, toddlers are asserting their independence, which can lead to bedtime battles and nighttime awakenings.

Handling Sleep Regressions Caused by Milestones:

Sleep regressions can be challenging for both babies and parents. Here are some strategies to help navigate these disruptive periods:

• Stay Consistent: Maintain a consistent bedtime routine and sleep environment to provide comfort and familiarity.
• Adjust Naps: If your baby is resisting naps due to a developmental milestone, try adjusting the timing or duration of naps to ensure they aren’t over/under tired.
• Offer Comfort: During times of separation anxiety or emotional development, providing extra comfort and reassurance can help your baby settle back to sleep.
• Monitor Teething: If teething is causing discomfort, offer teething remedies as recommended by your pediatrician to ease the pain.
• Create a Safe Sleep Environment: As your baby becomes more mobile, ensure their sleep space is safe to prevent accidents. Practice their physical milestones lots during the day.
• Adjust Feeding Patterns: If your baby’s sleep regression is linked to a growth spurt, be prepared for more frequent feeds, and ensure they are getting full feeds during the day.

Remember that sleep regressions are temporary phases in your baby’s development. They signify growth and progress, even though they may test your patience at times. By understanding the connection between developmental milestones and sleep disruptions, you can approach these challenges with patience, empathy, and a well-thought-out plan to help both you and your baby navigate this exciting journey together.

Sarah Oliver – Pediatric sleep consultant

Sarah is a pediatric sleep consultant for infants and children.  If you are looking for further support, reach out to Sarah today by booking a free discovery call.