Sleep regressions can be one of the most challenging phases for new parents, especially when your baby hits the 4-month mark. This period, often filled with sudden changes in sleep patterns, can leave parents feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what’s happening.
But here’s the good news: this phase is a sign of your baby’s healthy development. Let’s explore what the 4-month sleep regression is, why it happens, and how you can navigate it with confidence and care.
What Is the 4-Month Sleep Regression?
The 4-month sleep regression is actually not a regression—it’s a natural developmental milestone where your baby’s sleep patterns begin to mature. Unlike newborn sleep, which cycles mostly between deep and light sleep, babies around four months start experiencing sleep cycles similar to adults—cycling through light, deep, and REM sleep. This shift in sleep architecture can lead to more frequent night wakings and shorter naps as their bodies adjust.
This is a permanent change in how your baby sleeps, marking a critical step in their growth and development. While this can be a tough adjustment, it also means your baby is developing more complex brain functions and stronger sleep patterns over time.
Signs of the 4-Month Sleep Regression
Every baby is unique, but some common signs of the 4-month sleep regression include:
More frequent night wakings
Shorter naps or difficulty staying asleep
Increased fussiness or irritability
Trouble falling asleep independently if they were able to before
Early morning wake-ups
If you notice these behaviours, it’s likely your baby is navigating this developmental leap.
How Long Does the 4-Month Sleep Regression Last?
There isn’t a set duration because this isn’t a temporary setback—it’s a permanent shift in your baby’s sleep patterns. However, the intensity of the sleep disruptions usually lasts between 2 to 6 weeks as your baby adapts to these changes.
The good news? With gentle guidance, patience, and consistency, your baby’s sleep can stabilise and improve over time.
Read more about establishing healthy sleep habits in my blog here: Gentle Sleep Solutions: Establishing Healthy Sleep Habits for Your Little One
Why Babies Don’t Go Back to Sleeping Like Before
As mentioned, the 4-month sleep regression marks a lasting change in how your baby sleeps. Their sleep cycles have matured, and they now transition through lighter and deeper stages of sleep, making them more prone to waking between cycles. This is why some babies may not return to the long stretches of sleep they had as newborns. Instead, they need gentle guidance to learn how to link sleep cycles and fall back asleep more independently.
For expat families in Barcelona, navigating sleep regressions can feel even more challenging when adjusting to life in a new country—far from familiar support networks. Settling into a new city while caring for a young baby can be overwhelming. If you need help navigating the relocation process, Going to Barcelona offers specialised services to make your move smoother and help you feel more at home.
What to Do—and What Not to Do—During the 4-Month Sleep Regression
What to Do:
Establish a consistent bedtime routine to help signal sleep time.
Review your baby’s awake windows—
they might need adjusting as your baby grows.
Encourage self-soothing by giving your baby a moment to try falling back asleep before intervening.
Create a sleep-friendly environment—dark, quiet, and cool.
Offer extra comfort and cuddles during this sensitive time to reassure your baby.
Use white noise or soft lullabies to help your baby transition between sleep cycles.
What Not to Do:
Avoid introducing new sleep habits you don’t want long-term, like rocking or feeding to sleep every time.
Don’t stress about perfect sleep schedules—flexibility is key during regressions.
Resist making drastic changes to feeding or sleeping routines out of frustration.
Avoid comparing your baby’s sleep to others—each baby’s journey is unique.
How My Workshop Can Help You
Navigating the 4-month sleep regression can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. My workshop, Get Sleep Ready for Your Newborn—designed for expectant parents and those with babies up to 5 months—offers expert guidance to help you:
Understand your baby’s evolving sleep needs
Build gentle, effective routines that promote better sleep
Learn strategies to manage developmental leaps and sleep changes
Gain confidence in supporting your baby through this pivotal stage
Join me on March 4, 2025, at 13:00 for this empowering session and set your family up for sleep success. Take the first step toward more restful nights!
A Final Word
Remember, the 4-month sleep regression isn’t a setback—it’s a sign your baby is growing and developing beautifully. With understanding, patience, and the right support, you and your baby will find your rhythm again.
If you found this post helpful, share it with a friend who might need it!
Wishing you and your little one peaceful nights and joyful days.
With love,
Anna Doula, Lactation Consultant & Gentle Sleep Coach
675 39 8885