New Delhi: Sudden sleep troubles in growing children are common, temporary, and often linked to development. This article highlights some vital tips for parents. Many parents are surprised when a child who was sleeping well suddenly starts waking up at night, refusing naps, or becoming restless at bedtime. This phase is known as sleep regression. It is a normal part of childhood development and tends to happen during growth spurts or when new skills are being learned. Here, the expert explains sleep regression.
What is sleep regression?
Dr Manish A Balde, Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Gurgaon, said that sleep regression is a common occurrence and is a temporary change in a child’s sleep pattern. It often appears at certain ages, such as around 4 months, 8–10 months, 18 months, and again in toddlers and preschoolers. During these stages, the child’s brain is developing rapidly, which can affect sleep. The expert went on to talk about the causes of sleep regression in children
- Rapid physical and brain development
- Learning new skills like crawling, walking, or talking
- Separation anxiety and increased awareness
- Changes in routine, travel, or illness
- Teething or growth-related discomfort
Common signs parents notice
- Frequently waking at night
- Short or even skipped naps
- Difficulty in getting a sound sleep at night
- Clinginess or irritability
- Waking up early in the morning
How long does sleep regression last?
So, understand that sleep regressions tend to last between 2 and 6 weeks. Though the duration may differ from child to child. Parents must report these symptoms to the expert and seek timely help when the problem is persistent beyond several weeks and is associated with loud snoring, breathing pause, or laboured breathing; affects the child’s growth; and even affects feeding or daytime behaviour. Consult the doctor even if other symptoms, such as extreme irritability or excessive sleepiness, are exhibited by children.
Critical tips to manage sleep regression
It is the need of the hour for children to follow a well-structured sleep routine. Parents should create a peaceful sleep environment, keeping the room quiet, dim, and comfortable for sleeping. The child shouldn’t be awake for a long time, as overtiredness may worsen sleep problems and the child will end up feeling irritated and frustrated. Don’t get angry with the child. Avoid screens, loud play, or excitement close to bedtime, as the child will not be able to get a sound sleep. If sleep problems continue for several weeks, affect growth, or are linked with loud snoring, breathing issues, or poor daytime behaviour, then seek the expert’s help. Sleep regression is a normal part of growing up. With patience and support from parents, children return to healthy sleep patterns and can sleep well.
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