how developmental progressions impact sleep
As parents, we love watching our little ones grow and reach new milestones. But along with those exciting developmental progressions often comes a shift in sleep patterns. If your baby was sleeping well and suddenly starts waking more or struggling to settle, it could be due to a new skill they’re mastering! Understanding these phases can help you navigate them with more confidence and less stress.
When Do Developmental Progressions Occur?
Developmental progressions happen throughout a baby’s first few years, often coinciding with sleep disruptions. While every child is different, here are some common ages when these progressions tend to occur:
Around 4 months – The well-known 4-month sleep regression due to changing sleep cycles and increased awareness.
Around 8-10 months – Crawling, pulling to stand, and a boost in social awareness, which can cause frequent night wakings. Separation anxiety also peaks around this time, leading to increased clinginess and difficulty settling at bedtime.
Around 12 months – Walking, a growing sense of independence, and advancing communication skills (like first words and gestures) may lead to shorter naps or bedtime resistance as their brain is busy processing new ways to express themselves.
Around 18 months – A surge in language development, newfound toddler determination, and a growing desire to take control of their environment can disrupt sleep. This is when toddlers start asserting independence, which may lead to bedtime resistance and more frequent testing of boundaries.
Around 2 years – Bigger emotions, bedtime stalling, and potential nap transitions can lead to sleep challenges.
What Do These Progressions Look Like?
Each baby experiences these phases differently, but common signs include:
Increased Night Wakings – Your little one may wake up more frequently, sometimes just to practice their new skills or seek comfort due to separation anxiety.
Trouble Settling for Naps or Bedtime – A more active mind and body can make it harder for babies and toddlers to wind down, leading to bedtime resistance.
Shorter or Skipped Naps – Their brains are working overtime, and sometimes excitement over newfound abilities makes them fight sleep.
More Crying or Fussiness at Sleep Times – Frustration, overstimulation, and emotional changes can lead to increased fussiness when trying to sleep.
Practicing New Skills in the Crib – It’s common for babies to roll, sit up, pull to stand, or even babble and gesture when they should be sleeping. This is a sign of progress, even if it feels disruptive!
Clinginess and Separation Anxiety – Many babies experience phases of increased attachment, making it harder for them to fall asleep independently.
Increased Energy and Restlessness – Some toddlers seem extra wired before bedtime as their bodies adjust to their new skills and routines.
While these disruptions can feel exhausting, they are actually a positive sign that your child’s brain and body are growing!
What Can We Do to Support Sleep During These Phases?
Stick to a Consistent Routine – Predictability is reassuring for babies and toddlers. Keep their nap and bedtime routine as consistent as possible, even if sleep is temporarily disrupted.
Give Plenty of Practice Time – If your baby is working on a new skill (like rolling or standing), let them practice during the day so they’re less likely to do it in the crib at night.
Offer Comfort Without Creating New Habits – It’s okay to offer extra cuddles and reassurance, but try not to introduce new sleep associations (like rocking to sleep) that could be hard to break later.
Ensure They’re Getting Enough Daytime Sleep – Overtiredness can make sleep disruptions worse. Adjust naps if needed to keep them well-rested.
Stay Patient and Trust the Process – These phases will pass! Your baby is learning so much, and their sleep will settle again with time.
Final Thoughts
Developmental progressions can be challenging, but they’re also a sign of amazing growth! By understanding what’s happening and how to support your child through these phases, you can help them (and yourself) get through sleep disruptions with more ease.
Remember, you’re doing an amazing job. 💛 If you’re struggling, please reach out for extra support. Sleep will improve, and before you know it, you’ll be celebrating another milestone!
