Are you wondering what to do about your baby’s sleep patterns changing around 3 months of age? You may be one of the many.
Many parents find that their baby, who used to sleep through the night or take frequent long naps, becomes disoriented and exhausted when they stay awake longer or get less sleep. This situation is called 3-month sleep regression and is very difficult to deal with.
This is the stage where infants who have been napping frequently shorten their naps, sometimes to just 30 minutes. But why do babies go through this stage? More importantly, what can you do about it?
Keep reading for practical tips for dealing with a 3-month sleep regression so you both get a good night’s sleep.
Also read: The 3-month-old wake-up window: Tips for healthy sleep habits
What is a 3-month sleep regression?
Your baby’s sleep changes by the first 3 months of life. development. The baby becomes more aware of his movements, his visual and auditory abilities are refined, he is able to feel emotions, and his desire for communication increases. Nevertheless, these developments pose challenges to sleep.
In addition, other physical changes such as bone strengthening, stomach enlargement, and increased subcutaneous fat layer also cause this degeneration.
It’s important to understand that the 3-month sleep regression is a normal part of your baby’s growth process and will resolve itself over time. Therefore, it does not have a negative impact on your child’s health and only indicates that your child is growing well and reaching major milestones in life.
At three months of age, the structure of sleep changes, with both superficial and deep phases lasting longer, and infants becoming more likely to wake up from sleep each time they are unable to transition smoothly from one stage to another. Become.
Also Read: The Science Behind Healthy Sleep for Babies: Understanding Sleep Cycles and Patterns
What is the sleep schedule for a 3 month old?
Street the study, Typically, a 3-month-old baby needs about 14 to 17 hours of sleep a day, split between nighttime and daytime naps. This means infants need to be awake for 7 to 10 hours each day. Doctors recommend not forcing small children to sleep. Instead, parents can set a sleep schedule. Each day, you can create a consistent routine in which you wake up at the same time and put your baby to bed. Maintaining a standard time will adjust your growing baby’s internal clock to that schedule. This allows infants to wake up and go to sleep at set times. Instead of waiting until your baby is completely asleep, put her to bed while she’s still tired. Additionally, make sure your baby’s sleeping environment is quiet, cool, and dark.
What are the signs of a 3 month sleep regression?
Understanding the signs of sleep regression over a three-month period and distinguishing sleep regression from other sleep disorders can be very helpful.
At about three months of age, your baby is growing significantly, which can affect their sleep. Common signs that your baby may be experiencing sleep regression include:
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Increased nighttime awakenings: Your baby is just starting to establish a sleep pattern and suddenly starts waking up more often during the night.
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difficult to fall asleep: Even though you look tired, you may have trouble falling asleep.
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Noisier than usual: During the day, your baby may be even more cranky due to interrupted sleep and irritability.
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I don’t want to take a nap anymore: Your baby may suddenly refuse to sleep or start to dislike previously peaceful sleep periods.
Typically, these changes can be attributed to growth spurts, teething pains, reaching new developmental milestones, disruptions to daily life, illness, or even environmental adjustments.
Sleep regression vs. other sleep disorders
If there is a change in the infant’s sleep pattern. You need to find out if it’s a sleep regression or some other break-time interruption.
The main differences are:
Signs of sleep regression |
Other sleep disorders |
It occurs around a certain age (e.g. 3 to 4 months, 6 months, etc.). |
Can occur at any time, even without a clear pattern |
Associated with developmental milestones and growth spurts |
Often related to external factors such as disease or environment |
temporary, usually lasting 2 to 4 weeks |
Duration may vary and may be longer without intervention |
Increased nighttime awakening and irritability |
Symptoms may include distinctive discomfort, such as a tugging on the ear in the case of an ear infection. |
Manage by maintaining a routine and sleep training method |
May require medical intervention or environmental changes |
It usually does not worsen your baby’s health and is a natural part of growing up. |
This may indicate a health problem or discomfort |
Understanding these differences can help you take appropriate actions due to sleep regression, such as sticking to a bedtime routine and consulting your doctor if you suspect an illness.
How long does a 3 month sleep regression last?
The third month of crib is tough for children and parents alike, but its duration varies from person to person, but it usually lasts only three weeks.
The timing and length of sleep regression varies from baby to baby. Factors that influence this variation include:
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Developmental stages that infants reach.
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Changes in sleep patterns.
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A growth spurt occurs during this stage.
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Increased awareness of the world around you.
This happens to some babies earlier than others. Therefore, the length and intensity of the associated sleep disturbances vary.
When should you seek improved sleep patterns?
Most parents and experts agree that things start to improve around 4 months of age. At this point, your baby will begin to transition out of the neonatal sleep stage, and his sleep will be deeper and more energizing.
This transition is an ideal time to start teaching your baby independent sleep skills, such as falling asleep on their own and connecting sleep cycles without unnecessary nighttime awakenings.
Try the following when dealing with this particular issue:
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Know your baby’s sleep needs: At this age, babies still need plenty of sleep, including three to five naps a day and staying awake for no more than two and a half hours at a time.
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Observe signs of fatigue: This allows you to identify signs of his fatigue, such as grizzled hair, yawning, and rubbing his eyes, so you can gently put him to bed without waiting until he gets too tired.
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Create a sleep-friendly environment: That way, your baby’s sleeping area is less likely to be disturbed and promotes restful sleep.
No two babies are alike. What may be a miracle for one person may not be a miracle for another. Therefore, we advise you to be tolerant and patient while exploring what is most suitable for your baby.
Parent and baby strategies to alleviate infant sleep regression
Dealing with a three-month sleep regression requires patience and strategy. Here’s what parents can do:
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environmental adjustment: A predictable and quiet sleep environment is very important. Blackout curtains and white noise machines can help create a comfortable sleeping environment.
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Keeping a consistent bedtime routine lets your baby know it’s time for bed and reinforces their natural sleep patterns.
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action strategy: Soothing techniques such as swaddling and white noise can be very effective. It mimics the safety of the womb and also blocks out surprising sounds.
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Changing your child’s feeding schedule may help ensure that he or she gets enough food during the day, reducing the need for nighttime feedings.
Also read: Group feeding of infants: What you need to know
3-month sleep regression: What to do to support parents?
Parents must find ways to cope with stress and seek support from partners and family members. Become a member of her Support Group to share experiences and strategies with other parents facing the same issues.
By implementing these targeted strategies in your daily life, you can manage and reduce the effects of a three-month sleep regression.
final thoughts
There is always a glimmer of hope hidden behind every cloud. This quote accurately depicts what happens during the three-month sleep regression period. It’s hard, but it means your child’s growth and development.
During this period, your child will learn new skills and their brain will develop significantly. Sleep may be disrupted during this stage, but that’s all normal and a fun part of growing up.
Remember, this too will come true. Be patient, remain firm, and apply appropriate strategies. Everything will be fine. If you’re not satisfied with your baby’s sleep or feel overwhelmed, seek help from your pediatrician or sleep specialist.
FAQ
Why did my 3 month old son suddenly stop sleeping?
If your baby’s sleep patterns suddenly change, he or she may be experiencing a sleep regression during the first three months of life. This happens when your child’s brain develops significantly and then as their sleep cycles switch, their naps become shorter and they wake up more often during the night.
Why does my 3 month old son wake up again for night feedings?
Babies experiencing this type of regression tend to wake up frequently during the night. It can result from increased hunger due to growth spurts or the need for comfort during this developmental period.
Is it safe for a 3 month old baby to sleep for 10 hours?
A 3-month-old baby can sleep 10 hours a night if he or she is eating enough, mainly during the day, and is growing well. Nevertheless, each baby is unique. So if you’re concerned about your child’s sleep or general health, you should consult with your pediatrician for guidance.
What not to do during sleep regression?
Do not change the infant’s sleeping environment. Continue to maintain the same state as before regression.
How long does a 3 month sleep regression last?
Minimum 2 weeks, maximum 4 weeks.
Should I feed my baby during sleep regression?
No, make sure to give your baby enough nutrition during the day.
How do I know if my baby is having sleep regression?
The most common sign of sleep regression is frequent and sudden awakenings during the night. If you notice this happening to your baby, it’s a sleep regression.