New parents often remember significant milestones in their baby’s early life, such as the first word, the first taste of solid food, and that first adorable smile that isn’t just gas-related. However, a milestone that often goes overlooked is the first time your baby sleeps through the night. After enduring the relentless exhaustion that comes with a newborn, that moment when you realize both you and your little one have had a full night’s rest fills you with hope—perhaps you’ve made it through the toughest phase, and the road ahead will be easier.
But then the three-month mark arrives, and suddenly it feels like all your sleep-training efforts have vanished. You might find yourself questioning what went wrong. A quick search online or a chat with a fellow mom reveals it’s likely your baby is experiencing the three-month sleep regression. Here’s what you need to know if you’re feeling worn out.
Experiencing sleep challenges with your baby? Explore our complete sleep regression guide that covers sleep changes during the first year, including the four-month, six-month, seven-month, eight-month, nine-month, and twelve-month regressions.
What is Sleep Regression?
In general terms, sleep regression refers to periods (often lasting around three to six weeks) when a previously well-sleeping baby or toddler suddenly abandons their established sleep routine. This can manifest as frequent nighttime awakenings, difficulty falling back asleep, shorter naps, or outright refusal to nap. For exhausted parents, these episodes can be incredibly frustrating, especially after they thought a normal sleep pattern had been achieved.
Since the 1940s, developmental psychologists have studied sleep regression in babies. However, despite decades of research, there’s still no clear explanation for why or when it occurs, as reported by the New York Times. While countless books and websites outline specific “stages” of sleep regression as normal developmental milestones, it’s important for parents to realize that sleep regression can vary widely among infants. If your baby doesn’t fit the expected timeline, it’s usually not a cause for alarm. Always consult your pediatrician if you have concerns.
What to Expect During Your Baby’s 3-Month Sleep Regression
If your three-month-old is having trouble sleeping, they may be going through a sleep regression phase. While many sources suggest the first major regression occurs around four months, this is not a hard rule. If your 12-week-old has stopped sleeping through the night and is off their regular nap schedule, several factors could be at play. Typically, at three months, babies can sleep for three to five hours at a time without needing a feeding. Waking up three times a night can be normal, but if it’s more frequent, they might rely on feeding or soothing methods like rocking or cuddling to go back to sleep. It’s also possible that your baby is simply starting the four-month sleep regression a bit early.
Strategies for Navigating Your Baby’s 3-Month Sleep Regression
While it may feel disheartening to experience a sleep regression, remember that these phases are temporary. If you’re unsure whether your baby is entering the four-month regression early or if they’re simply waking for comfort, this is a good opportunity to help them learn to fall asleep independently. Gradually reduce their calming routine by one minute each day, so they become drowsy but still awake when placed in their crib. After a few weeks, your baby should become more accustomed to drifting off to sleep on their own, which will be beneficial for future sleep regressions.
How Much Sleep Does a Newborn Need?
When your baby is napping, it’s a blessing for you both. It provides an opportunity for you to rest and handle other responsibilities. But how much sleep is really necessary for your little one? Newborns (ages 0-3 months) typically require about 14 to 17 hours of sleep a day, usually in one to two-hour increments.
Sample Nap Schedule for a 3-Month-Old
Need a sleep schedule for your newborn? Here’s a recommended outline, but remember to tailor it to your baby’s unique needs:
- Wake up: 7:30 a.m.
- Nap One: 8:45 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
- Nap Two: 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- Nap Three: 3:15 p.m. to 4:50 p.m.
- Nap Four: 6:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. (Use this two-hour gap for your baby’s bedtime routine.)
- Bedtime: 8:45 p.m. (Final nap)
Activities to Help Your Baby Sleep
To help tire out your three-month-old, consider engaging them in various activities. Here are a few exercises that promote growth and development while expending energy:
- Practice Sitting Up: If your baby is ready, encourage them to practice sitting up to strengthen their muscles.
- Tummy Time: This activity is great for building arm and leg strength, which will ease their transition to crawling. It also enhances their hand-eye coordination.
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Summary
The three-month sleep regression can be a challenging phase for parents as their baby’s sleep patterns become unpredictable. Understanding the nature of sleep regression and implementing strategies to help your baby learn to sleep independently can make this period easier. Remember, every baby is different, and it’s essential to consult with a pediatrician if you have concerns.