The dreaded 10 month sleep regression can feel like a major setback for even the most experienced parents. Suddenly, your baby, who was finally sleeping through the night, starts waking up constantly. Naps become battles. Everyone in the house feels the exhaustion. Here’s a breakdown of why this happens, how to handle it, and what you can do to restore peace in your home.
What Is the 10 Month Sleep Regression?
The 10 month sleep regression is a temporary disruption in your baby’s sleep pattern. Around this age, your baby is hitting developmental milestones that impact sleep. They’re learning new skills like crawling, standing, or even saying their first words. Their brain is working overtime, making it hard for them to wind down.
This regression isn’t just about development. Separation anxiety can also kick in around this time. Babies may wake up more frequently to check that you’re still nearby.
Signs of the 10 Month Sleep Regression
Wondering if your baby is going through this phase? Look for these telltale signs
- Frequent Night Wakings. Your baby, who used to sleep long stretches, is now waking multiple times a night.
- Short or Skipped Naps. Naptime becomes chaotic. Babies may resist naps or wake up after just 20-30 minutes.
- Increased Fussiness. Sleep-deprived babies are cranky. You might notice more meltdowns or clingy behavior.
- Difficulty Falling Asleep. Your baby takes longer to settle down, even with their usual bedtime routine.
What Causes It?
- Developmental Milestones
At 10 months, your baby’s brain is on fire with new learning. They might practice crawling, cruising, or standing in their crib instead of sleeping. - Separation Anxiety
Around this age, babies begin to understand object permanence. They know you still exist when you’re not in the room, and they don’t like it. - Changing Sleep Needs
As babies grow, their sleep patterns evolve. Your baby might need fewer naps or a longer wake window before bedtime. - Teething
Teething pain can also disrupt sleep. If your baby is drooling or chewing more than usual, their teeth could be the culprit.
How to Handle It
Dealing with the 10 month sleep regression can be tough, but these tips can help
1. Stick to a Routine
Babies thrive on predictability. Stick to a consistent bedtime and naptime schedule. Include calming activities like a bath, reading, or gentle rocking before bed.
2. Practice New Skills During the Day
Help your baby master their milestones while they’re awake. Spend time practicing crawling, standing, or walking. This way, they won’t feel the need to rehearse in the crib.
3. Offer Comfort, but Don’t Overdo It
If your baby wakes up crying, offer comfort without creating new sleep associations. Pat them gently or shush them, but avoid picking them up every time unless absolutely necessary.
4. Adjust Their Wake Windows
As babies grow, they may need longer awake periods between naps. Experiment with stretching wake times by 15-30 minutes to see if it helps.
5. Manage Separation Anxiety
Reassure your baby during the day by playing peek-a-boo or spending quality time together. At night, a comforting object like a lovey can help ease their fears.
What to Avoid
- Skipping Naps. It might be tempting to skip a nap to tire your baby out. This often backfires, making them overtired and harder to settle.
- Starting New Habits. Avoid creating sleep crutches, like rocking them to sleep every night. Breaking these habits later will be tough.
- Ignoring the Problem. Sleep regressions don’t fix themselves. Being proactive is key to surviving this phase.
When to Call the Doctor
Sometimes, sleep issues go beyond typical regressions. Consult your pediatrician if
- Your baby is waking up crying in pain.
- Sleep disruptions persist for longer than 6 weeks.
- Your baby shows signs of illness, like fever or diarrhea.
The Light at the End of the Tunnel
The 10 month sleep regression is temporary. For most babies, it lasts 2-6 weeks. During this time, focus on consistency, patience, and self-care. Remember, your baby is growing and learning at an incredible rate. The sleepless nights are tough, but this phase is also a sign of progress.
Hang in there, and know that better sleep is on the horizon—for both you and your baby.
