6-Month Sleep Regression
Physical growth spurts and new motor skills disrupt sleep patterns.
Duration
1-3 weeks
Temporary regression linked to growth and development
Timing
5-7 months old
Can start as early as 5 months or extend to 7 months
Cause
Growth & Motor Skills
Rolling, sitting up, and rapid physical development
What's Happening at 6 Months?
The 6-month sleep regression is driven by rapid physical development and growth spurts. Unlike the 4-month regression (permanent sleep cycle changes), this one is truly temporary—usually lasting 1-3 weeks.
Key developmental milestones: Babies are learning to roll both ways, sit up independently, and some are beginning to rock on hands and knees. This physical practice continues in sleep, waking them up.
Growth spurts: Many babies experience a major growth spurt around 6 months, leading to increased hunger, especially at night. They may genuinely need extra calories during this time.
Signs of the 6-Month Regression
Night Wakings Return
Baby who was sleeping through the night suddenly wakes 2-3 times again, often wanting to feed.
Practicing Skills in Crib
You find baby rolling, sitting up, or rocking in the crib instead of sleeping. The practice is involuntary!
Increased Hunger
More frequent feeding during day and night. This is often real hunger from growth spurts, not just comfort.
Shorter Naps
Naps may shorten again or become inconsistent. Baby might wake up rolling or sitting up during naps.
Increased Fussiness
More cranky than usual, especially in evenings. Sleep deprivation plus physical development is exhausting!
Teething May Begin
First teeth often emerge around 6 months, adding discomfort to sleep disruptions. Check for swollen gums.
How to Survive the 6-Month Regression
Feed Adequately During Day
Growth spurts mean increased calorie needs. Offer more frequent feedings during waking hours. If baby is showing hunger signs at night, this may be legitimate hunger—not just comfort.
Practice Motor Skills During Day
Give plenty of tummy time and floor play to practice rolling, sitting, rocking. The more they practice while awake, the less they'll wake up to practice at night.
Help Baby Get Un-Stuck
If baby rolls/sits up in crib and can't get back down, gently reposition them without fully waking them. Keep interaction minimal and boring.
Maintain Sleep Training Gains
If you sleep trained during 4-month regression, don't undo that progress now. Respond to genuine needs but maintain independent sleep skills where possible.
Address Teething Discomfort
If teething, offer cold teethers during day, and give appropriate pain relief before bed if pediatrician approves (Tylenol/Motrin for 6+ months).
Adjust Schedule if Needed
At 6 months, wake windows increase to 2-3 hours. Ensure you're not over- or under-tired. May be transitioning from 3 naps to 2 naps.
What NOT to Do During the 6-Month Regression
- Don't assume it's permanent: This is truly temporary! Maintain good sleep habits and it will pass.
- Don't start solid foods solely for sleep: While starting solids around 6 months is normal, it won't magically fix sleep.
- Don't let baby sleep face-down if not rolling confidently both ways: Safety first! Ensure baby can roll back to back independently.
- Don't stop responding to night wakings entirely: This may be real hunger from growth spurts. Babies at 6 months may still need 1-2 night feeds.
When to Call Your Pediatrician
Most 6-month sleep issues are developmental, but consult your doctor if:
- Baby shows signs of illness (fever, unusual crying, decreased appetite)
- Sleep problems persist beyond 4 weeks with no improvement
- Baby seems in pain (pulling ears, arching back—possible ear infection or reflux)
- You notice snoring, gasping, or breathing pauses
- Baby is not meeting other developmental milestones
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