What is 6-Month-Old Baby Sleep Regression?

Sleep regression is a phase where a baby, who previously slept well, suddenly starts waking up frequently and has difficulty settling back to sleep. A 6-month-old baby sleep regression is a normal development stage that coincides with various growth milestones at this age.

Signs of Sleep Regression at 6 Months

• Inconsistencies in sleep patterns
• Frequent night awakenings
• Difficulty falling asleep
• Changes in nap length or resistance to naps
• Increased fussiness and irritability

Causes of 6-Month-Old Baby Sleep Regression

The primary cause of a baby sleep regression at 6 months is developmental milestones. These could include teething, learning to sit up, roll over, or starting solid foods, all of which can disrupt your baby’s sleep patterns.

Managing Sleep Regression at 6 Months

Strategies to Handle 6-Month-Old Sleep Regression

• Establish a consistent bedtime routine: This helps to signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep.
• Encourage self-soothing: This is an important skill for babies to learn and can help them settle back to sleep without your intervention.
• Ensure a comfortable sleep environment: Keep your baby’s room dark, quiet, and at an appropriate temperature.
• Prioritize naps: Try to keep your baby’s nap schedule consistent, even if night sleep is disrupted.

Understanding and Handling the 6-Month Sleep Regression and Growth Spurt

The 6-Month Sleep Regression

Signs of Sleep Regression at 6 Months

• Increased night awakenings
• Difficulty falling asleep
• Resistance to naps or shortened naps
• Increased fussiness, particularly around sleep times

Causes of Sleep Disruptions at 6 Months

Sleep regressions can be triggered by a range of factors, including developmental milestones, changes in routine, teething, and illness. Your baby may also be experiencing a growth spurt, leading to increased hunger and wakefulness.

How Long Does the 6-Month Sleep Regression Last?

The 6-month sleep regression usually lasts between 2 to 6 weeks. However, the duration can vary for each baby.

How to Manage the 6-Month Sleep Regression?

• Establish and maintain a consistent sleep routine
• Encourage self-soothing behaviours
• Ensure your baby is comfortable, with a quiet, dark, and cool sleeping environment
• Seek guidance from a healthcare professional or sleep consultant if necessary

The 6-Month Growth Spurt

Signs of a Growth Spurt at 6 Months

• Increased appetite
• More frequent awakenings, often due to hunger
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Increased fussiness

How Long Does a 6-Month Growth Spurt Last?

A growth spurt typically lasts a few days to a week.

Managing a 6-Month Growth Spurt

• Ensure your baby is getting enough to eat during the day
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
• Provide comfort and reassurance

Common Sleep Issues at 6 Months and How to Address Them

Why is my 6-Month-Old Waking Up at Night?

This could be due to the sleep regression or growth spurt, or other factors like teething or a change in routine. Ensure your baby’s basic needs are met and maintain a consistent sleep routine.

How Do I Teach My 6-Month-Old to Self Soothe?

Help your baby learn to self-soothe by establishing a consistent bedtime routine, putting your baby down drowsy but awake, and giving them the chance to settle themselves during night awakenings.

Should I Feed My 6-Month-Old at Night?

At 6 months, some babies may still require one to two feedings at night. However, if your baby is waking frequently and using feeding to return to sleep, it might be time to encourage other self-soothing behaviours.

Why Is My 6-Month-Old Waking Up Every 2 Hours?

This could be a sign of the 6-month sleep regression. It could also be due to hunger, particularly if your baby is going through a growth spurt. Make sure your baby is getting enough to eat during the day, and keep a consistent sleep routine.

Can Overtiredness Cause Split Nights?

Yes, overtiredness can lead to split nights where your baby wakes for a significant period in the middle of the night. Ensure your baby is getting adequate naps during the day to avoid overtiredness.

Support from SleepBaby.org

How SleepBaby.org Can Help with 6-Month-Old Sleep Regression

Managing a 6-month sleep regression can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. SleepBaby.org is your partner during this challenging phase. We specialize in providing guidance and support to parents navigating various stages of their baby’s sleep. With resources on understanding sleep patterns, establishing routines, and coping with changes such as 6-month sleep regression, SleepBaby.org is a one-stop solution for all your baby sleep concerns.

When to Consult a Professional

Seeking Help for 6-Month-Old Sleep Regression

While a 6-month-old baby sleep regression is a normal part of development, if it lasts for an extended period or causes significant distress for you or your baby, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional or a sleep consultant. Remember, every baby is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to managing sleep issues.