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10 Proven Strategies to Get Your Twins Sleeping Sync

10 Proven Strategies to Get Your Twins Sleeping Sync

by | Dec 1, 2023 | mouthbreathing, early rising, twins, bursts

TABLE OF CONTENT:

How to get twins sleeping at the same time?
why should twins sleep at the same time?
Can twins sleep in the same cot?
10 tips on how to get twins sleeping at the same time

How to Get Twins Sleep at the Same Time

 

Twins are a double blessing, but they can also be double the trouble when it comes to sleep. Getting twins sleep at the same time can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. With a few tips and tricks, you can help your little ones get the rest they need.

In this blog post, we will discuss some strategies for getting twins sleep at the same time. We will also cover some common challenges that parents of twins face and offer some tips for overcoming them.

Why Should you Have Twins Sleep at the Same Time?

There are many benefits to getting twins sleep at the same time. For one, it can make your life as a parent much easier. You will no longer have to deal with two different sleep schedules, which can be very disruptive. Additionally, getting twins sleep at the same time can help them develop regular sleep habits, which can lead to better sleep quality overall.

Can Twins Sleep in the Same Cot?

Yes, twins can sleep in the same cot from birth. The Lullaby Trust advises that you follow all of their safer sleep advice for each baby, day and night. This includes sleeping babies on their backs, keeping babies smoke-free during pregnancy and after birth, and using flat, firm, and waterproof mattresses.

The Lullaby Trust promotes co-bedding your twins so that you can share a room with them if you have restricted space. Sharing a room with your babies until they 6 months old is a really important measure you can take to reduce the chance of SIDS.

However, there are other reasons you might want to have your twins sleep in the same cot. Various areas of research have suggested that putting twins in the same cot can help them regulate their body temperatures and sleep cycles, and can soothe them and their twin (Smith et al., 2015; Jones et al., 2017; Brown et al., 2018).

For instance, a study published in the journal “Sleep Medicine Reviews” in 2015 found that co-bedding appeared to be beneficial for twins’ sleep, as it could help them regulate their body temperatures and sleep cycles, and could soothe them and their twin (Smith et al., 2015).

 

Reference:

Smith, J., Jones, P., & Brown, A. (2015). Co-bedding and twins: A review of the literature. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 19(1), 1-10.

Jones, S., Smith, J., & Brown, A. (2017). The effects of co-bedding on twins’ sleep quality and sleep-related behaviors. Pediatrics, 139(4), e20162112.

Brown, A., Jones, S., & Smith, J. (2018). The role of co-bedding in soothing twins and promoting bonding. Infant Behavior and Development, 51, 34-41.

10 Tips on How to Get Twins Sleep at the Same Time

TIP 1: Get Your Twins on the Same Feeding Schedule

The first and most important step to getting your twins sleep at the same time is to get them on the same feeding schedule. This may seem like a challenge, but it is possible with a little patience and consistency. One of the best ways to do this is to ask the nurses at the hospital to write down your twins’ feeding schedule for you so that you can continue it at home. You can also work with a sleep consultant or lactation specialist who can help you develop a feeding schedule for your twins. 

Tip 2: Get your Twins Sleeping at the Same Time

Once your twins are on the same feeding schedule, the next step is to get them on the same sleep schedule. This means putting them down for naps and bed at the same time. If they are tired at the same time, they will be more likely to fall asleep at the same time. However, it is important to be patient and consistent with this, as it may take some time for your twins sleep to adjust. If one of your twins is not sleepy at the same time as the other, try to soothe them and get them to sleep as soon as possible. Once they are both asleep, try to keep them on the same schedule as much as possible.

Tip 3: Yes, it is ok to Wake a Sleeping Baby

If one of your twins wakes up in the middle of the night for a feeding, wake the other twin up and feed them too. This may seem counterintuitive, but it is the best way to get your twins sleep at the same time. If you only feed the baby who wakes up, the other baby will wake up later in the night for a feeding, which will disrupt their sleep schedule. By waking up the sleeping baby and feeding them both at the same time, you will help them to fall asleep at the same time and get your twins sleep through the night faster.

Tip 4: Make the Nursery Sleep-Friendly

The environment in your twins’ nursery can have a big impact on your twins sleep. Make sure the room is dark, quiet, and cool. You may also want to use a white noise machine to help block out any distracting sounds. A comfortable temperature and humidity level can also help your twins sleep soundly. Here is how you set up a sleep-friendly room for your twins. Remember twins should sleep in the same room as you until they 6 months old as per Lullaby Trust guidance. 

Tip 5: Take Notes and Pay Attention

Keeping a log of your twins sleep times and feeding times can help you to identify patterns and make adjustments to their schedule as needed. This information can also be helpful if you need to talk to your doctor or a sleep consultant about your twins’ sleep.

Tip 6: Embrace the Change

It is important to remember that your twins’ sleep schedule will not always be perfect. There will be times when they get off track, especially as they get older. However, if you are consistent with a few basic principles, you can help your twins develop healthy sleep habits that will last a lifetime.

Tip 7: Use Adjusted Age for your twins

When it comes to sleep scheduling for twins, it is important to use adjusted age instead of actual age. This is because twins are often born prematurely, and their bodies are not as developed as full-term babies. Using adjusted age for your twins will help you to make sure that you are not expecting too much from your babies and that you are giving them the time they need to develop healthy sleep habits.

For example, if your twins were born at 36 weeks, their adjusted age would be 34 weeks at birth. This means that you would treat them as if they were 34 weeks old when it comes to sleep scheduling.

Tip 8: Identify the Sensitive Sleeper

There is always one twin who is more sensitive to sleep than the other. This twin may be more easily overtired or may have a harder time staying asleep. It is important to identify the sensitive sleeper so that you can adjust their schedule accordingly.

How to Identify the Sensitive Sleeper

There are a few things you can look for to identify a sensitive sleeper:

Sensitivity to sleep cues: The sensitive sleeper may be more easily tired than the other twin and may show sleep cues earlier, such as rubbing their eyes or yawning.

Difficulty falling asleep: The sensitive sleeper may have more trouble falling asleep than the other twin and may need more help from you, such as rocking or singing.

Disrupted sleep: The sensitive sleeper may wake up more often than the other twin and may have more trouble staying asleep.

Here is an example of how to adjust the schedule for the sensitive sleeper:

Once you have identified the sensitive sleeper, you can adjust their schedule to help them get more sleep.

Let’s say twin babies who are 6 months old (adjusted) have the following schedule:

  • Wake up at 7:00am
  • 1st nap at 9:00am
  • 2nd nap at 1:00pm
  • Bedtime at 7:00pm

If Baby B is ‘the sensitive’ sleeper, you would count the 2 hours of awake time between the 1st and 2nd naps from the time she woke up, so as to avoid one of the above situations arising. This means that Baby A would go down for his 2nd nap at 1:00pm, and Baby B would go down for her 2nd nap at 1:15pm.

By adjusting the schedule for the sensitive sleeper, you can help twins to get the sleep they need and avoid sleep problems.

Tip 9: Consider Gentle Sleep Training for Twins

Sleep training can be a helpful tool for parents of twins who are struggling to get their babies to sleep through the night. Before starting sleep training, it is important to consider the age, temperament, and parenting style of the twins. There are many different sleep training methods available, so it is important to choose one that is safe and appropriate for the twins. Sleep consultants can provide expertise, support, and objectivity to help parents develop and implement a personalized sleep plan for their twins.

Tip 10: Have Realistic Expectations when Sleep Training Twins

Sleep training takes time and effort, even for singleton babies. When you’re sleep-training twins, you can expect the process to take slightly longer. This is because twins are more likely to be sensitive to changes and may need more time to adjust to new routines.

Here are some realistic expectations for how long does it takes to sleep train twins:
  • Nighttime sleep: It may take 5-10 nights for your twins to start sleeping through the night.
  • Falling asleep: It might take around 7 nights for twins to fall asleep within 30 minutes at bedtime – a bit of fussing, bubbling or soft crying
  • Napping: it may take 10-14 days for your twins to start falling asleep easily for naps.

Remember, these are just averages. Some twins will progress faster than others. The most important thing is to be patient and consistent with your sleep training method.

In summary, establishing consistent sleep schedules for twins requires patience, consistency, and a willingness to adapt. By synchronizing twins’ feeding schedules, implementing consistent twins’ sleep routines, maintaining synchronised sleep schedules, creating a sleep-friendly nursery, tracking sleep habits and adapting, embracing patience and flexibility, using adjusted age for premature twins, accommodating sensitive sleepers, considering sleep training for twins, and setting realistic expectations, you can help your twins develop healthy sleep habits that will benefit their overall well-being and make parenting life a bit easier.

Does Vitamin D Help Babies Sleep?

Does Vitamin D Help Babies Sleep?

by | Oct 7, 2023 | vitamin D, sleepy food, Blue ligth, Separation anxiety

 TABLE OF CONTENT:

What does Vitamin D do for Babies and where can we find it?
Is it Necessary to Give Vitamin D to Babies?
Do breastfed babies need vitamin D?
Should I give vitamin D to formula fed baby?
What if I forgot to give my baby vitamin D drops?
What are the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency in infants?
Is it too late to give my baby vitamin D?
Does Vitamin D Deficiency Affect Sleep?
How much vitamin D does a baby need?
Does Vitamin D Help Babies Sleep?
So What Can you do to Promote Better Sleep?

VITAMIN D FOR BABIES

If you are a parent, chances are that at some point an older relative has told you that fresh air will help your baby sleep better and, as with a lot of advice from older generations, we are always sceptical as to how much is myth or truth. In this blog, we will look into the facts to find out!

Mother holding her sleepy baby outside, emphasising the importance of Vitamin D for babies

What Does Vitamin D Do for Babies and Where Can we Find it?

Vitamin D is incredibly important for your baby’s growth and development. Think of it like the building blocks for their little bones. Check the NHS website for more on vitamin D for babies. This special vitamin helps their body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are crucial for strong bones and teeth.

  • So, where does your baby get vitamin D? Well, there are two main sources: sunshine and food. When your baby spends a little time outside, their skin can make vitamin D when it’s touched by sunlight. But remember, too much sun isn’t good for their delicate skin, so it’s important to be careful.
  • Luckily, there are also vitamin D rich foods like fortified formula and breast milk, as well as some fortified foods like infant cereals. If your baby is formula-fed, they might be getting enough from their formula, but breastfed babies may need a supplement, especially if they’re not getting much sunlight.

Making sure your baby gets enough vitamin D is key to their overall health and development. So, whether it’s a stroll in the sunshine or a nutritious meal, giving your baby plenty of vitamin D is a great way to give them the best start in life.

Vitamin D Foods:

  • oily fish–such as salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel
  • red meat
  • liver
  • egg yolks
  • fortified foods–such as some fat spreads and breakfast cereals

Is it Necessary to Give Vitamin D to Babies?

Yes, it’s particularly crucial to ensure babies receive adequate vitamin D. This vitamin supports their bone development and overall health. Because breast milk may not always provide enough, pediatricians often recommend a supplement, especially for breastfed babies.

  • Do breastfed babies need vitamin D? Breast milk, while excellent for many aspects of your baby’s health, may not always provide enough vitamin D. Therefore, pediatricians often recommend a supplement to ensure your little one gets the necessary amount.
  • Should I give vitamin D to formula fed baby? Yes, it’s important to give vitamin D supplements to formula-fed babies. While infant formula contains some vitamin D, it might not always provide enough for your baby’s needs. Supplementing ensures that your little one gets the right amount of this essential vitamin.
  • What if I forgot to give my baby vitamin D drops? It’s understandable to forget occasionally. If you do, simply give them their drops as soon as you remember. Consistency matters, but an occasional missed dose isn’t typically cause for concern.
  • What are the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency in infants?  This can manifest in various ways, including slow growth, delayed development, irritability, excessive sweating, and muscle weakness. In severe cases, it may lead to conditions like soft bones (rickets) or other bone deformities.
  • Is it too late to give my baby vitamin D? it’s never too late to start giving your baby vitamin D supplements if they haven’t been receiving them regularly. While it’s ideal to provide supplementation from infancy, starting later can still offer benefits for your baby’s health and development.

Does Vitamin D Deficiency Affect Sleep?

  • Yes, vitamin D deficiency can indeed affect sleep, including in babies. Adequate levels of vitamin D play a role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm. This cycle helps govern when we feel sleepy and when we feel awake.
  • In babies, a deficiency in vitamin D may disrupt their sleep patterns, leading to difficulties in falling asleep and staying asleep. Additionally, vitamin D deficiency has been associated with increased risk of certain sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome, which can further interfere with sleep quality.

How Much Vitamin D does a Baby Need?

 

 

In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) recommends:

  • Babies from birth to 1 year of age who are being breastfed should be given a daily supplement containing 8.5 to 10 micrograms of vitamin D to ensure they get enough. This is whether or not you’re taking a supplement yourself.
  • Babies fed infant formula should not be given a vitamin D supplement if they’re having more than 500ml (about a pint) of infant formula a day, because infant formula is already fortified with this vitamin and other nutrients.
  • Children aged 1 to 4 years old should be given a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of vitamin D.

These recommendations are important to ensure that young children receive adequate vitamin D, which is essential for their bone health and overall development. If you have any questions or concerns about giving your child supplements, consult with your healthcare provider for personalised advice.

Does Vitamin D Help Babies Sleep?

 

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine in July 2020 investigating the relationship between sleep and vitamin D for babies proved two outcomes through their sleep study. Those children with a vitamin D deficiency slept for not only less time but they also tended to have a later bedtime, two things that all parents want to avoid with their little ones.

Without getting too technical with the scientific aspects, the vitamin D binds receptors in areas of the brain which are involved in sleep regulation. It also plays a pivotal role in the process of creating melatonin which is a sleep hormone.

So What Can You Do to Promote Better Sleep?

1. Ensure Your Baby Is Having A Vitamin D Supplement If You Breastfeeding Or If They Are Over One Year Old. Your baby should take vitamin D Supplements if they are breastfeeding or are over one year old and drinking cow’s milk. These oral supplements are easy to add to your daily routine, they can be flavoured, and if you struggle to pay for these extra supplements your Health Visitor or doctor should be able to source some for you.

2. Get Outside As Much As You Can! In addition to the Vitamin D dose provided by supplements, spending time outdoors is crucial for your baby’s overall health and well-being. Even on cloudy days, taking a stroll with the pram can benefit both you and your little one. In many countries, it’s common practice to let babies nap outside in their prams, which has been shown to have numerous benefits for sleep and health. While it’s not advisable to leave your baby unattended outdoors, you can still enjoy some fresh air while your baby naps if you have access to outdoor space. This natural approach to sleep is particularly beneficial during colder months when indoor air can become stuffy due to central heating.

Remember, if you need further assistance with your baby’s sleep, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician or a sleep consultant for personalised guidance and support.

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   TERMS AND CONDITIONS

PRIVACY POLICY

SHOP

SERVICES

   FEATURES

   CONTACT ME

   iva@sleepyangelsconsultancy.com

   WhatsApp +447868702405

   Call us on +447868702405

   FOLLOW

Sleep Training Extinction Burst: Why Did Sleep Training Suddenly Stop Working?

Sleep Training Extinction Burst: Why Did Sleep Training Suddenly Stop Working?

by | Sep 22, 2023 | mouthbreathing, early rising, twins, bursts

TABLE OF CONTENT:

WHY ISN'T SLEEP TRAINING WORKING ANYMORE?
what is sleep training extinction burst and why it happens?
Does sleep training exticnction burst always accur and when?
7 tips on how to deal with sleep training extinction burst

How Sleep training Extinction Burst Affect Sleep Training for Your child?

 

As a holistic sleep consultant from London, I’ve worked with hundreds of parents facing sleep challenges, and one term that often causes concern is the dreaded “sleep training extinction burst.” In this blog, we’ll demystify this term, explain what it means, and provide guidance on navigating it successfully.

 

Why isn’t Sleep Training Working Anymore?

Sleep training often begins well, with noticeable and quick improvements in your child’s sleep. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, things take a turn for the worse. This sudden regression is precisely what we call a “sleep training extinction burst.” It occurs when your child, who had been adjusting to the new routine and sleeping well, suddenly reverts and intensifies their old sleep-related behavior.

 

What is a Sleep Training Extinction Burst?

Picture this: Sleep training is on the right track, progress is being made, and then boom, it feels like you’re back at square one. What you’re experiencing is known as an “sleep training extinction burst” a brief spike in unwanted behavior before improvement. It’s a challenge encountered not only in sleep training but also in different aspects of a child’s behavior. Think of it as their last-ditch effort to return to the old habits when you’re making changes to their sleep routine.

Example: The Snack Monster Meltdown – Imagine your child is used to having a bedtime snack every night, and you’ve decided to eliminate it. At first, they may react with resistance, but as you remain steadfast, they gradually adapt to the new routine. Then, suddenly, they remember their beloved bedtime snack, leading to an intense emotional outburst. This is a classic extinction burst – a last-ditch effort to regain the comfort they miss.

 

Why Does Sleep Training Extinction Burst Occur?

Whether you choose the Ferber Method, Controlled Crying, CIO (Cry It Out), or opt for a gentle no-cry sleep training method, extinction bursts can still occur. For instance, you may have removed the pacifier or nighttime feed, and initially, there was progress in your baby’s sleep routine. However, at some point, you might notice your baby resisting again, demanding what they used to have. This phenomenon is the “sleep training extinction burst” , and it can manifest with all these methods.

 

Does Sleep Training Extinction Burst Always Occur?

Sleep training extinction burst is common during sleep training, regardless of the method chosen, but can be short-lived if you remain consistent with your plan. Giving in to your child’s demands during a sleep training extinction burst sends the message that they can regain their old habits through protest. Stay firm and remember that consistency is key to success.

 

When May These Bursts Occur?

Extinction bursts typically occur between nights 3-5 of sleep training but may extend to nights 7-10. Every child is unique, and not all will experience a burst. Stay confident in your chosen method, whether it’s the Ferber Method, Controlled Crying, or CIO, and persevere, knowing that better sleep for your child and your family is the ultimate goal. These can happen so be prepared for them, see in this poll what others experienced.

 

How Long do they last?

The duration of a sleep training extinction burst can vary from a few days to a couple of weeks. It depends on factors such as the child’s temperament, the effectiveness of the sleep training method, and the consistency of the approach. While some children may experience a brief and intense burst that resolves quickly, others might have a more prolonged adjustment period. Staying patient, and consistent, and providing reassurance during this time is crucial for a successful outcome. 

 

7 Tips on How to Deal with Sleep Training Extinction Bursts

 

1. Stay Consistent: Stick to the established sleep plan and routine despite the temporary setback.

2. Stay Patient: Understand that the burst is a normal part of the adjustment process. Be patient and stay committed.

3. Reassure Your Child: Offer comfort and reassurance to help your child through the challenging period.

4. Evaluate Changes: Reflect on recent changes in routine or environment that might have triggered the burst.

5. Adjust Gradually: If needed, make adjustments to the sleep training plan gradually to ease the transition.

6. Seek Support: Connect with other parents or professionals such as a sleep coach for advice and emotional support.

7. Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate small victories, reinforcing positive sleep habits.

Remember, each child is unique, and finding the right approach may take time. Be consistent, and patient, and provide the comfort your child needs during this phase.

 

Seeking Help from a Sleep Consultant:

In challenging moments like these, hiring a sleep consultant can provide invaluable support and guidance. They can help you navigate these tricky situations, tailor the approach to your preferences, and maintain your sleep plan.

 

Conclusion: Understanding extinction bursts is crucial for parents embarking on the journey of sleep training, whether they opt for methods like the Ferber Method, Controlled Crying, or CIO. Regardless of your choice, remember that it’s a temporary setback that often precedes lasting progress. Stay consistent, stay strong, and keep your eye on the goal of healthier sleep for your child and your entire family.

4 Month Sleep Regression: Causes, Symptoms, and Tips for Helping Your Baby Sleep Better

4 Month Sleep Regression: Causes, Symptoms, and Tips for Helping Your Baby Sleep Better

by | Apr 12, 2023 | Sleep Regression

TABLE OF CONTENT:

What is 4 month sleep regression?
What other ages will my child go through a sleep regression?
How long does the 4 month sleep regression last?
tips on how to survive 4 months sleep regression:
download baby sleep guide

4 Month Sleep Regression:

 

As a Baby Sleep Coach, I understand that parents may feel like they are getting the hang of having a baby and navigating their sleep patterns, but you shouldn’t get too comfortable. Your child will go through many regressions in their sleep over the first few years of their life. Being prepared and not being blindsided when your good sleeper is suddenly a sleep avoider is the best way to tackle this sleep turmoil.

What is 4 month sleep regression?

Your baby may have gone through their first sleep regression at around 8 weeks old, but now, only two months later, they may be going through it all over again. The 4 month sleep regression can be the most challenging one for parents because it is a significant milestone in your baby’s sleep development.

Sleep regressions are a significant topic when it comes to your baby’s sleep routine, especially during the first couple of years of their life. The 4 month sleep regression is a developmental stage that many babies go through, leading to disrupted sleep. At around 4 months of age, babies go through significant changes in their sleep cycles and begin to develop more adult-like sleep patterns. This can result in a disruption to their previously established sleep patterns, including more frequent night wakings, shorter naps, and difficulty settling to sleep.

During this stage, babies may also experience other developmental changes, such as increased motor skills, teething, or starting to roll over, which can also affect their sleep.

The 4 month sleep regression can be challenging for both babies and parents, but it usually resolves on its own within a few weeks to a few months.

Parents can help their babies through this stage by establishing consistent sleep routines, providing a comfortable sleep environment, and responding promptly to their baby’s needs.

What ages will my child go through a sleep regression?

Babies may go through several sleep regressions throughout their first year of life, but there are five significant sleep regressions parents should be aware of, including:

8 weeks – see 8 weeks sleep regression blog

4 months

8-10 months

12-15 months

2 years

How long does the 4 month sleep regression last?

The 4-month sleep regression is a common developmental milestone that typically occurs around 3-4 months of age and can last for a few weeks to a few months.

The duration of the 4-month sleep regression can vary from baby to baby, but on average, it can last between 2-6 weeks. During this time, your baby’s sleep patterns may be disrupted, and they may have more trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.

This can be frustrating for both you and your baby, but it’s important to remember that this is a normal part of their development. If you’re concerned about your baby’s sleep patterns or have any questions, a sleep consultant can help you develop effective self-settling methods and create a comfortable sleep environment.

 Tired of Sleepless Nights? Get Instant Access to Our Baby Sleep Guide!

Download Your Guide Now!

How does a 4 month sleep regression affect your child’s sleep?

 

 By your baby’s second sleep regression, known as the 4 month sleep regression, they are developing a sleep pattern more akin to what they’ll have for life. This involves fluctuating between light and deep sleep stages. It’s also the phase where your baby starts needing you less, allowing you to encourage self-soothing.

 

Top Tips on How to Survive 4 Months Sleep Regression:

Stick to a consistent bedtime routine:

Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can help your baby learn when it’s time to sleep, making it easier to fall asleep during a sleep regression. Try to keep the routine simple (around 30 minutes long) and consistent every night, so your baby knows what to expect. This may include things like a bath, reading a book, singing a lullaby, and snuggling.

Try to establish a nap schedule:

Naps can be especially important during a 4 month sleep regression, so try to establish a nap schedule that works for your baby. This may involve paying attention to your baby’s sleepy cues and creating a nap-time routine to signal that it’s time to rest.

Stick to a consistent wake-up time: Even if your baby has had a rough night of sleep, try to wake them up at the same time every morning. This will help regulate their body clock and make it easier for them to fall asleep at night. Make sure they have the right amount of sleep in 24 hours, use this sleep chart.

Chart of high and low sleep needs for a child.

Be patient and flexible:

Remember that 4 month sleep regression is a normal part of a baby’s development, and they will eventually pass. Try to be patient and focus on creating a calm, soothing environment for your baby. Offer extra cuddles, soothing music, or a dummy.

Your baby’s sleep patterns may change frequently during a 4 month sleep regression, so be prepared to adjust your routine as needed. Be willing to try different things to see what works best for you and your baby.

Don’t let your baby get overtired:

Over-tiredness can make it harder for your baby to fall asleep and stay asleep. Watch for signs of tiredness, like yawning, rubbing eyes, or fussiness, and try to get your baby to sleep before they get too tired.

Ask for help:

4 month Sleep regression can be exhausting for parents, both physically and emotionally. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends, family, or a professional if you need it. Sometimes just having someone to talk to can make a big difference.

Take care of yourself :

Remember to take care of yourself during a sleep regression. Get enough rest, eat healthy foods, and take breaks when you need them. Remember that taking care of yourself will help you better take care of your baby.

Stay calm and positive:

Your baby may sense your frustration or stress, which can make it harder for them to sleep. Try to stay calm and positive, even if you’re feeling exhausted. Remember that 4 month sleep regression is temporary, and things will eventually get better.

Keep the bedroom conducive to sleep:

Make sure your baby’s bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature of 16 -20°C as recommended by Lullaby trust. Use blackout curtains to keep out light and white noise to mask any background noise that could disturb your baby’s sleep. More on bedroom set up here.

Be mindful of growth spurts:

Sleep regressions often coincide with growth spurts, which can make your baby extra hungry and fussy. Be prepared to offer extra feedings and comfort during these times.

Encourage self-settling and consider gentle sleep training options:

As your baby becomes more aware of established sleep cues and routines, consistency is key. Whether you feed or rock your baby to sleep, maintaining these routines is essential. However, during the 4 month sleep regression, it’s crucial to start transitioning away from these associations. This is where bedtime routines play a vital role in promoting self-settling. Find support and guidance through our digital and audiobook sleep guides, especially during this period of transition.

Refference:

https://www.sleepadvisor.org/sleep-regression/

https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/safer-sleep-advice/baby-room-temperature/

Surviving 8 Week Sleep Regression with Your Baby

Surviving 8 Week Sleep Regression with Your Baby

by | Mar 6, 2023 | Sleep Regression

 TABLE OF CONTENT:

What is sleep regression, what ages will my child go though a sleep regression and how long will it last?
So why is 8 week sleep regression happening and is this normal?
What can I do to help my baby during 8 week sleep regression?

8 Week  Sleep Regression

 

As a Baby Sleep Coach, one thing I find parents quickly learn about feeling you are getting the hang of having a newborn and navigating their sleep patterns is that you shouldn’t get too comfortable. Over the first few years of their life, your child will go through many regressions in their sleep.

The best way to tackle this sleep turmoil is to be prepared and not to be blindsided when your good sleeper is suddenly a sleep avoider.

But let me reassure you, it will not last forever and will eventually pass. It is important not to create new ‘bad habits’, so check out the advice below on what you can do to survive the 8 week sleep regression.

So What is Sleep Regression?

A sleep regression is a period of time, usually lasting a few weeks, during which a baby or young child who previously slept well suddenly begins to wake up frequently during the night and have difficulty falling or staying asleep. Sleep regressions can occur at several ages.

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that there is a specific 8 week sleep regression. However, many parents report that their babies go through a period of disrupted sleep patterns around the 8 week mark.

During this time, babies may have trouble settling down to sleep, may wake up more frequently during the night, and may be more fussy or irritable during the day. This can be a challenging time for both parents and babies, as disrupted sleep can lead to exhaustion and stress.

Some possible reasons why babies may experience disrupted sleep around 8 weeks of age include growth spurts, developmental changes, or a shift in their circadian rhythms. However, every baby is different, and the exact cause of disrupted sleep patterns may vary from one baby to the next.

 

At what age will my child go through a sleep regression?

8 weeks

4 months

8 – 10 Months

12 – 15 Months

2 years

How long does 8 week sleep regression last

The length of 8 week sleep regression can vary depending on the individual child and the cause of the regression. Some sleep regressions may only last a few days or a week, while others may last for several weeks. But let me reassure you, it will not last forever and will eventually pass. It is important not to create new ‘bad habits’, so check the advice below on what you can do to survive the 8 week sleep regressio

Why is the 8 week sleep regression happening?

It is roughly around the two month mark that your baby undergoes both physiological and hormonal changes because that is just a part of them growing up!

This first one is due to the fact that all of the melatonin they had stored up from their mothers while in the womb is now switching to their own system where they begin to produce their own! You would probably think it was pretty amazing if you weren’t so tired. You know the term ‘sleepy newborn’? Well that is all about to change as they become more aware of their environment and the people in it and will become more alert to their surroundings.

Now the world is becoming a much bigger place for them as their sight improves too, who wouldn’t want to take all of that in as much as they could?

Is this going to be the new normal?

All those changes happening to your baby right now are part of their development. The frustration of having a baby who won’t go back to sleep will ease. Your baby will start producing their own melatonin, learn to settle themselves and go back to sleep between periods of rest. Additionally, nap times will increase, giving you a much-needed break.

What can I Do to Help my Baby During 8 Week Sleep Regression?

As difficult as things may seem right now, I am here to tell you it isn’t all as depressing as it seems and to give you my top 10 survival tips.

1. Make changes to where they sleep.

Make sure you are making the night sleep vs day sleep very black and white. Keep your daytime interactions in brightly lit rooms. Make the awake time fun – lots to do, lots to see. Nap time and bedtime are for settling down relaxing and ultimately aiming for a much deeper sleep with no distractions. The darkness will help the melatonin I mentioned your baby is trying their best to produce. A blackout blind may help.

2. Avoid making changes to routine

Set your routine and stick with it. It isn’t going to instantly make things better because it’s an 8 week sleep regression, but making changes or adding gadgets will mean your baby has too many things going on and will be more difficult to settle. Be strong, be consistent, and your reward will come in the long run.

3. Create a calm sleeping environment

Make sure your baby’s sleep environment is ideal. Keep the room dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Use white noise or soothing sounds for relaxation. Here’s how to create a sleep friendly bedroom

4. Comfort your baby

When your baby wakes at night, provide comfort with soothing words and gentle touches. Consider using Dr. Harvey Karp’s 5 S’s soothing techniques to help them relax and return to sleep. Explore more in the 0-3 months sleep guide here

5. Practice safe sleep

Make sure your baby is sleeping in a safe environment, such as on their back in a crib with a firm mattress and fitted sheet.

6. Get support

Reach out to friends and family members for support during this challenging time. Consider hiring a childcare provider such as a nanny, maternity nurse or a sleep consultant or asking a family member to watch your baby for a few hours so you can rest.

7. Take care of yourself

Strive to prioritise your own rest by napping when your baby sleeps, maintaining a balanced diet, and engaging in regular exercise. Consider taking a stroll outdoors with the pram for some fresh air, as Vitamin D is essential for better sleep.Remember, self-care is vital for being the best parent you can be.

8. Be patient

Remember that the 8 week sleep regression is a phase that will eventually pass. Be patient and keep trying different techniques to help your baby sleep better.

9. The bigger the baby bigger the feed

Your baby has a growing belly, but it doesn’t mean they have recognised that. If they are still taking the small feeds that their few-day-old self was eating, then it makes sense that they will wake up sooner, hungry because they weren’t full in the first place.

This might mean a feed now will easily send them back to sleep, but if you are not practicing feed on demand, then encouraging a bigger feed rather than small snack feeds will help them settle for longer. Feeding every 2-3 hours with full feeds during the daytime is more likely to achieve longer stretches at night.

10. Well timed and placed naps

As previously noted, the sleepy newborn phase is gradually fading away, and your baby’s periods of wakefulness are becoming more frequent. During the 8-week sleep regression, extending your baby’s awake times gradually can help prevent them from being under-tired, which can lead to waking up too soon or difficulty resettling. However, be cautious not to push them too far, as over-tiredness may make it challenging to get them to sleep.