There are certain milestones that every new parent cherishes: the first word, the introduction to solid foods, and that unforgettable smile that isn’t just gas. However, there’s another significant milestone that often goes overlooked — the moment your baby sleeps through the night. After enduring the sleepless nights of caring for a newborn, waking up to find that both you and your little one have actually rested can fill you with hope that the hardest days are behind you.
But then the three-month mark arrives, and suddenly it feels like all your hard work on sleep training has vanished. One quick search online or a chat with a fellow parent reveals the truth — your baby is likely experiencing the three-month sleep regression. Here’s what you need to know about this common phase and how to cope.
What is Sleep Regression?
In simple terms, sleep regression refers to specific periods (typically lasting about three to six weeks) when a baby or toddler who previously slept relatively well begins to wake frequently at night or takes shorter naps than usual. This can be incredibly frustrating for parents who thought they were getting back on track with sleep.
Research into sleep regression has been ongoing since the 1940s. Despite decades of study, scientists are still uncertain about the exact reasons and timing of these regressions. While there’s no definitive timeline, many resources outline certain “stages” of sleep regression that most infants experience. This can be comforting for parents, assuring them that they are not alone in facing these challenges. However, every child is unique, and variations in sleep patterns are generally not a cause for alarm. Always consult your pediatrician if you have concerns.
What Happens During a Baby’s 3-Month Sleep Regression?
If your three-month-old seems to be having trouble sleeping, they may be going through a regression. While many sources suggest the first significant regression occurs around four months, this is not a hard rule. If your 12-week-old baby has stopped sleeping through the night or is out of sync with their usual nap schedule, several factors could be at play. At three months, babies can typically sleep for three to five hours without needing a feeding; waking up three times a night is still considered normal. However, if they are waking more frequently, they may be relying on feeding or other soothing methods to get back to sleep. It’s possible that your baby is just starting their four-month sleep regression a bit early.
How to Navigate a Baby’s 3-Month Sleep Regression
It’s essential to remember that even though it may feel overwhelming, sleep regression is normal, and these phases are temporary. If you’re unsure whether your baby is entering their four-month sleep regression early or just waking up for comfort, it might be a good opportunity to teach them to fall asleep independently. Gradually shorten their calming routine by one minute each day, allowing them to become drowsy but still awake when placed in their crib. This method can help them adapt to falling asleep on their own, which can be beneficial when they eventually reach the four-month regression stage.
How Much Sleep Should My Newborn Get?
Sleep is vital for both you and your baby. Newborns typically require about 14 to 17 hours of sleep daily, often in one- to two-hour intervals. It’s crucial to ensure that your baby gets adequate rest for their growth and development.
Sample Nap Schedule for a 3-Month-Old:
If you’re seeking a structure for your newborn’s naps, consider the following schedule. Remember, this is just a guideline; adapt it to fit your family’s needs.
- Wake Up: 7:30 a.m.
- Nap One: 8:45 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
- Nap Two: 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- Nap Three: 3:15 p.m. to 4:50 p.m.
- Nap Four: 6:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. (use this time for bedtime routine)
- Bedtime: 8:45 p.m.
Activities to Help Your Baby Sleep Better:
Engaging your three-month-old in various activities can help expend their energy and support their development. Here are some suggestions:
- Encourage them to practice sitting up if they are capable, which helps build their muscles.
- Incorporate tummy time to strengthen their arms and legs, preparing them for crawling and enhancing their hand-eye coordination.
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In summary, the three-month sleep regression is a common phase that can disrupt your baby’s sleep patterns. Understanding that it’s a typical part of development can help ease your worries. By gradually encouraging independent sleep habits and maintaining a flexible nap schedule, you can navigate this challenging time more smoothly.