As your little one approaches their first birthday, witnessing their rapid growth and development can be a joy. However, you might find yourself feeling like they’re taking a step back—especially if they start waking up more at night or resisting sleep altogether. This behavior might be indicative of the eight-month sleep regression.
At eight months, babies typically require about 12 to 15 hours of sleep a day, combining nighttime rest and naps. If your baby isn’t getting enough sleep, you might notice an uptick in crankiness—something every parent wants to avoid. Here’s what you should know about this regression phase and some strategies to help your baby return to a peaceful sleep routine.
Understanding Sleep Regression
Sleep regression refers to periods—usually lasting two to six weeks—when a baby or toddler who had been sleeping relatively well suddenly struggles with sleep. This can manifest as frequent night awakenings, shorter naps, or outright refusal to sleep. For parents, this can be incredibly frustrating, especially if they thought they were finally establishing a reliable sleep pattern.
Though research on sleep regression has been ongoing since the 1940s, experts still don’t fully understand why it occurs or when exactly it happens. While many parenting resources outline specific “stages” of sleep regression, it’s important to remember that each child is unique. If your baby doesn’t adhere to a typical timeline, it’s usually not a cause for alarm. Always consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns.
What to Expect During the 8-Month Sleep Regression
If this situation sounds familiar, it may remind you of the four-month sleep regression your baby previously faced. Between six and eight months, many babies experience another regression due to significant cognitive and physical changes. According to Healthline, signs of this regression can include:
- More frequent awakenings at night, with longer periods needed to drift back to sleep.
- Increased fussiness.
- Shorter naps.
- Resistance to sleep.
Typical Sleep Schedule for an 8-Month-Old
Recognizing the signs of sleep regression requires knowing what a typical sleep pattern looks like for an 8-month-old. Each baby is unique, so don’t stress if your child’s sleep hours vary slightly. On average, an 8-month-old should get about 14 hours of sleep daily, with around 9 to 12 hours at night and a few daytime naps totaling 3 to 4 hours.
Here’s a sample sleep schedule for your little one:
- 7:00 a.m. – Wake up
- 9:30 a.m. – Nap
- 11:30 a.m. – Wake up
- 2:00 p.m. – Nap
- 3:30 p.m. – Wake up
- 7:00 p.m. – Bedtime routine
- 7:30 p.m. – Bedtime
Tips for Managing the 8-Month Sleep Regression
Start by checking your baby’s temperature to rule out fever, which can disrupt their sleep. If your baby is not teething and seems out of sorts with their usual sleep routine, they might be experiencing an eight-month sleep regression. Here are some strategies to help:
- Maintain a consistent bedtime routine and sleep schedule, including for naps. Although it may be tempting to keep them awake during the day hoping they’ll sleep better at night, this can often backfire. A well-rested baby usually sleeps more soundly.
- Ensure your baby is well-fed and has a clean diaper before bedtime.
- Expose your baby to natural light during the day to help establish a healthy sleep-wake cycle.
- Encourage them to fall asleep in their crib instead of relying on swings or being held.
Despite the challenges of late-night crying, rest assured that this phase is temporary and with time, your baby will return to a more regular sleep schedule.
Helping Your 8-Month-Old Sleep Through the Night
At eight months, babies are full of energy and curiosity, making it important to engage them in physical activities throughout the day. Here are some fun ways to tire them out:
- Dance Party: Babies love to move! Put on some music and dance around. If they mimic you, it’s a bonus.
- Noisy Playtime: At this age, your baby may be quite vocal. Encourage them to make joyful sounds, as this playtime can help expend energy.
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Summary
The eight-month sleep regression can be a challenging time for both babies and their parents, but understanding the signs and implementing a consistent routine can help ease the transition. Remember, each baby is unique, and while sleep disturbances can be frustrating, they are often temporary.