12 Month Sleep Regression: Signs and 9 Proven Tips 

Sleep regression is a common occurrence during the 12-month mark, and can make getting your baby to sleep through the night seem like an impossible task.

Don’t worry though; we are here to help! We will discuss the signs of sleep regression as well as nine proven methods to help get your baby back on track!

Signs of Sleep Regression in 12 Months Old Babies

While every baby is different, there are a few common sings of sleep regression in 12-month olds. Here are some of the most common:

Increased fussiness and crying

Babies who are going through sleep regression may become fussier and cry more than usual. This can be frustrating for both you and your baby! It is important to stay calm and positive during this time, as your baby will pick up on your energy.

Frequent waking throughout the night

Another common sign of sleep regression is frequent waking throughout the night. This can make it difficult for both you and your baby to get a good night’s sleep. It is important to try to keep a consistent bedtime routine during this time.

Decreased napping

Some babies may also start sleeping less during the day when they are going through sleep regression. This can be frustrating, as it can make your baby even more tired at night. It is important to try to stick to a regular napping schedule as much as possible during this time (read here: Common Infant Sleep Disorders Signs and Dangerous Effects Of Lack Of Sleep In Babies) .

Change in nap habits

Babies who are experiencing sleep regression may start to take shorter or longer naps, or even skip them altogether. It is important to try to keep a consistent nap schedule as much as possible during this time.

More Difficulty Falling Asleep or Staying Asleep

Babies who are going through sleep regression may have more difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. This can be frustrating for both you and your baby! 

Waking Up Earlier Than Usual

Some babies may start to wake up earlier than usual when they are going through sleep regression. This can be frustrating, as it can mean that you are not getting as much sleep as you would like.

Less interest in toys or other activities

Babies who are going through sleep regression may have less interest in toys or other activities. This can be frustrating, as your baby may not want to do anything but sleep!

Proven Methods to Help Get Your Baby Back On Track

While every baby is different, there are a few proven methods that can help get your baby back on track. Here are nine of the most effective:

Consistent bedtime routine

One of the most important things you can do during sleep regression is to keep a consistent bedtime routine. This means putting your baby to bed at the same time every night, and doing the same things each night before bed. The more consistent you can be, the better!

Room sharing

Room sharing is a great way to help your baby sleep through the night during sleep regression. It means having your baby sleep in their crib in your room instead of in their own room. This may take some getting used to for both you and your baby, but it can be a great way to help them sleep better.

White noise

White noise is a great tool for helping babies fall asleep and stay asleep. There are many different types of white noise, so find one that works best for your baby. You can play white noise from a machine, or even download an app on your phone.

Swaddling

Swaddling is a great way to help your baby feel secure and comfortable. It means wrapping your baby in a blanket so that they cannot move their arms or legs. This can be a great way to help them fall asleep and stay asleep.

Pacifier

A pacifier can be a great tool for helping your baby sleep through the night. It can help them feel secure and comfortable, and it can also help them to fall asleep and stay asleep. It is important to make sure that the pacifier is always clean, and to only use it when your baby is asleep.

Rock or sway

Rocking or swaying your baby can be a great way to help them fall asleep. This means moving your body back and forth while holding your baby. You can do this in a rocking chair, or even swaying from side to side.

Gently massage

Gently massaging your baby can be a great way to help them fall asleep. This means using both hands to rub your baby’s back, neck, and head in a circular motion. You can do this for a few minutes before bedtime, or even during naps.

Allow Their Favorite Toy In Bed

Allowing your baby to have their favorite toy in bed can be a great way to help them fall asleep. This means letting them sleep with their favorite toy, or even having it in the crib with them. This may take some getting used to for both you and your baby, but it can be a great way to help them sleep better.

Eliminate Distractions and Barriers To Sleep

Finally, it is important to eliminate any distractions or barriers to sleep. This means keeping the room dark and quiet, and making sure that there are no toys or other objects in the crib that could keep your baby awake. By eliminating these distractions, you can help your baby get the best possible night’s sleep.

There are many different things that you can do to help your baby sleep through the night during sleep regression. The most important thing is to be consistent with your routine and to try different techniques until you find what works best for your baby.