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The 10 month sleep regression is a challenging, yet common, stage in a baby’s development. It can be difficult for parents to understand why their baby is suddenly having trouble sleeping, so it’s important to be aware of the signs and how to manage them. In this article, we’ll discuss what the 10 month sleep regression is, what causes it, and how to handle it.
What is the 10 Month Sleep Regression?
The 10 month sleep regression is a period of time when babies who were previously sleeping through the night may begin to wake up more frequently. It usually occurs between 9 and 11 months of age, and can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. During this time, babies may wake up more often than usual, have trouble settling back to sleep, and take longer than usual to fall asleep.
What Causes the 10 Month Sleep Regression?
There are several possible explanations for why the 10 month sleep regression occurs. One is that babies are going through a period of rapid cognitive development. As they learn new skills and become more aware of their surroundings, they may become more easily distracted and have trouble settling back to sleep.
Another possible cause is that babies are learning how to self-soothe. They may be trying to figure out how to fall back asleep without the help of their parents. This can be frustrating for parents, but it’s an important skill for babies to learn.
Finally, the 10 month sleep regression may be caused by a change in routine. Babies thrive on routine, and any disruption to their normal schedule can cause them to become unsettled.
Signs of the 10 Month Sleep Regression
There are several signs that can indicate that your baby is going through the 10 month sleep regression. These include:
- Waking up more often than usual
- Taking longer than usual to fall asleep
- Having trouble settling back to sleep
- Being more fussy or irritable than usual
How to Handle the 10 Month Sleep Regression
If your baby is going through the 10 month sleep regression, there are several things you can do to make the process easier.
Establish a Bedtime Routine
Establishing a consistent bedtime routine is one of the most important things you can do to help your baby get through the 10 month sleep regression. A bedtime routine should include calming activities such as a warm bath, massage, or reading a book. This will help your baby relax and feel secure, which will make it easier for them to fall asleep.
Allow Your Baby to Self-Soothe
As your baby learns to self-soothe, it’s important to give them the opportunity to do so. This means that when they wake up during the night, you should resist the urge to rush in and pick them up. Instead, give them a few minutes to see if they can settle themselves back to sleep.
Stick to a Schedule
Sticking to a consistent schedule can help your baby adjust to the 10 month sleep regression. Try to make sure your baby is getting enough sleep during the day, and that their bedtime is consistent. This will help them feel more secure and make it easier for them to settle back to sleep at night.
Make Sure Your Baby is Comfortable
Making sure your baby is comfortable is also important. Check that their room is at a comfortable temperature, and that their clothing is not too tight or restrictive. If your baby is still having trouble sleeping, you may want to try using a white noise machine or a nightlight to create a soothing environment.
Conclusion
The 10 month sleep regression can be a challenging time for both babies and parents. By understanding what causes it and how to handle it, you can help make the process easier. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine, allowing your baby to self-soothe, sticking to a schedule, and making sure your baby is comfortable are all important steps to take. With patience and understanding, you and your baby can get through the 10 month sleep regression and back to a peaceful night’s sleep.
