If your baby suddenly went from sleeping long stretches to waking up every hour, you’re not alone.
The 4 month sleep regression is one of the biggest challenges new parents face, but the good news is that it’s temporary.
Read on to know why it happens, how long it lasts, and what you can do to make it easier for both you and your baby.
What Is the 4 Month Sleep Regression?
The 4 month sleep regression is when your baby’s sleep patterns suddenly change around 3 to 5 months of age.
Babies who were once sleeping well may start waking up more often, fighting naps, or needing extra comfort to fall asleep.
This happens because your baby’s brain and body are growing fast. Their sleep cycles become more like an adult’s, which means they wake up more often and need help learning how to fall back asleep.
Why Does the 4 Month Sleep Regression Happen?
Every parent asks the same question: why now? The 4 month sleep regression happens because your baby’s sleep is maturing. They are moving from newborn sleep (lots of deep sleep) to lighter, more structured sleep cycles.
Other triggers can include:
- ✅ Growth spurts
- ✅ Increased awareness of surroundings
- ✅ Learning new skills like rolling or grabbing
- ✅ Teething may sometimes overlap, but it is not the main cause of sleep regression at this age
That’s why you might notice them waking every hour at night. Their body is simply adjusting to this new stage.
Signs and Symptoms of the 4 Month Sleep Regression
Not every baby shows the exact same signs, but there are common clues that point to the 4 month sleep regression.
- ✅ Waking up more often at night, sometimes every hour
- ✅ Shorter naps or skipping naps altogether
- ✅ Fussiness or crankiness during the day
- ✅ Needing more help to fall back asleep, like rocking or feeding
If these sound familiar, you’re likely in the middle of the regression.
How Long Does the 4 Month Sleep Regression Last?
Most parents want to know how long they’ll be stuck in this phase. Typically, the 4 month sleep regression lasts between 2 and 6 weeks. For some babies, it’s shorter, while others may take a little longer to adjust.
You’ll know it’s over when your baby:
- ✅ Starts sleeping in longer stretches again
- ✅ Falls asleep with less help
- ✅ Appears less fussy during the day
Patience and consistency are your best tools during this time.
How to Survive the 4 Month Sleep Regression (Practical Tips)
The 4 month sleep regression can feel endless, but there are proven ways to make it easier. These tips will help your baby get better rest and give you some peace of mind too.
Create a Consistent Bedtime Routine
Babies thrive on routine. A simple, calming bedtime routine helps signal to your baby that it’s time for sleep. This could include:
- ✅ A warm bath
- ✅ A gentle massage
- ✅ Reading a short book or singing a lullaby
- ✅ Dimming the lights
Parents often ask what a good bedtime is for a 4 month old. Most babies do best going to bed between 7 and 8 pm, but watch your baby’s sleep cues to find the sweet spot.
👶🏻 If nighttime wakings are leaving you with extra laundry, check out Best Overnight Diapers to keep your baby dry and comfortable all night long.
Focus on Daytime Sleep and Naps
Daytime sleep is just as important as nighttime sleep. An overtired baby will have a harder time falling asleep and staying asleep.
At 4 months, most babies need:
- ✅ 3 to 4 naps a day
- ✅ A total of 3 to 4.5 hours of daytime sleep
- ✅ Wake windows of 1.5 to 2 hours between naps
Try to keep naps around the same time each day to help set their internal clock.
Teach Healthy Sleep Habits Early
This is a great age to start teaching your baby how to fall asleep on their own. Some parents try gentle sleep training methods, while others simply give their baby a few minutes to settle before stepping in.
One common question is whether “crying it out” is safe during sleep regression. Some families choose this method, but it’s not the only option. There are gentler approaches that encourage self-soothing without long periods of crying.
Comfort Without Overdoing It
It’s natural to want to hold your baby during sleep regression, and yes, it’s absolutely okay. Babies need comfort, especially during big developmental changes.
The key is balance. If you always rock or feed your baby to sleep, they may expect it every time they wake up. Feeding during sleep regression is fine if your baby is truly hungry, but try not to make it the only way they fall asleep.
👶🏻 If you’re feeling overwhelmed by fussiness, don’t forget to read How to Soothe a Crying Baby for simple tricks that can calm both you and your little one.
What Not to Do During the 4 Month Sleep Regression
When you’re exhausted, it’s tempting to try anything to get your baby to sleep. But some habits can make things harder in the long run.
Avoid:
- ✅ Starting new sleep crutches like rocking for every nap
- ✅ Co-sleeping in the same bed, which the AAP advises against for safety reasons
- ✅ Expecting instant results from any method
- ✅ Relying on “quick fixes” that may backfire later
The AAP recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing for at least the first 6 months to reduce the risk of sleep-related incidents.
👶🏻 While you’re working through this, it may also help to think about your overall parenting approach. Browse Finding Your Parenting Style: A Guide for New Parents for encouragement and perspective.
When to Call Your Pediatrician
Most sleep regressions are normal and nothing to worry about. But sometimes, sleep struggles may point to something else.
Call your pediatrician if your baby is:
- ✅ Crying excessively and cannot be soothed
- ✅ Refusing to eat or feeding less than usual
- ✅ Showing unusual breathing or health concerns
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s always better to get checked out.
Conclusion
The 4 month sleep regression is tough, but it’s also a sign that your baby’s brain is developing in amazing ways. With patience, consistency, and a few smart strategies, you and your baby will get through it.
For more guides and tips on caring for your little one, visit Alppi Baby.
And if you’re ready to make nights easier, shop for Alppi Baby diapers and wipes. They’re one of the best choices for parents who want comfort and peace of mind.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the 4 Month Sleep Regression
What’s the hardest sleep regression?
Many parents say the 4 month sleep regression feels the hardest because it’s the first big change and it comes just when babies were starting to sleep longer. Later regressions at 8, 12, or 18 months can also be tough, but by then parents often feel more prepared.
What’s the longest a sleep regression can last?
Most sleep regressions last a few weeks, but in rare cases they can stretch up to 6 to 8 weeks. If your baby’s sleep has not improved after that, it may be worth checking for other issues like teething or developmental leaps.
Does co-sleeping help with regression?
Co-sleeping in the same bed may make night wakings easier to manage, but the AAP does not recommend bed-sharing because it increases the risk of sleep-related injuries and SIDS. Room-sharing, where your baby sleeps in a crib or bassinet in your room, is the safer option. Families who choose bed-sharing should follow strict safety guidelines.
How many naps for a 4-month-old?
Most 4 month olds need 3 to 4 naps each day, adding up to about 3 to 4.5 hours of daytime sleep. The length of each nap can vary, but keeping a predictable rhythm helps your baby rest better. Watching your baby’s cues is just as important as the clock.
