The 2-Year-Old Sleep Regression: What You Should Know
Sleep is one of the most important things for your child’s development. A lack of sleep affects how they learn, think, feel and behave. If your baby doesn’t get enough sleep, their ability to develop properly may suffer. They are less likely to thrive in school or perform well on tests because they aren’t rested when studying or doing homework.
Your baby’s mental capacity and emotional stability will also be affected if they don’t get enough sleep. Babies need at least seven hours of sleep each night. That means you have to make sure your baby gets at least six hours of sleep every single day! Even if you work from home, there are days where you won’t be able to give them all the love and attention they deserve.
Your baby will miss out on so much learning time if they aren’t getting enough rest.
What Causes the 2-Year-Old Sleep Regression?
Babies go through a developmental period called “the first year.” During this time, babies are still developing physically and mentally. They are not yet fully developed. This is why it’s so important to provide your baby with adequate sleep during this crucial stage of their lives. Too little sleep can cause problems later in life such as poor concentration skills, anxiety, depression and even obesity.
The first year sleep regression is a period of time where your baby suddenly needs more sleep. Your baby’s body has actually adjusted to not needing as much sleep during the day. When this happens, your baby will start to sleep for most of the day and night! During the first year sleep regression, your baby may want to sleep for long periods of time.
We are unsure as to why this occurs, but it can affect babies between ages six to twelve months.
How to Know if Your Baby is Sleeping Enough
There are several signs that can help you determine if your baby is getting enough sleep. If your baby has any of the symptoms below, they may not be getting enough rest.
■ Lack of Energy: If your baby seems to have no energy during the day, they are probably lacking sleep. A lack of energy is a very common side effect for babies who don’t get enough sleep.
■ Irritability: Your baby shouldn’t be fussy or irritable during the day. If your baby is upset for no reason, then they may not be getting enough sleep.
■ Sleeping Less than Normal: If your baby is sleeping for less than fourteen hours a day, then they may be going through the first year sleep regression. The average amount of sleep a baby needs decreases during the first twelve months before increasing again.
How Can I Help My Baby Sleep Better?
The best way to determine if your baby is getting enough rest, is to keep a log of your baby’s sleep habits. A sleep log will allow you to see if anything changes in your baby’s sleeping patterns. If your baby’s sleeping patterns change, then there might be something wrong. You can also use the log to see how you can help them sleep better at night.
What are my Chances of Having My Baby Go Through the Regression?
It’s impossible to tell if your baby will go through the regression. The regression is very common during the first year of life. There is a good chance that your baby will sleep better after going through the first year sleep regression, but it can be stressful for parents. Understand that your baby can get tired or irritable during this phase of their life.
If you feel like your baby isn’t sleeping well or you are worried they might be going through this regression, then contact your pediatrician or other medical professional. They will be able to tell if your baby is getting enough sleep and if they suggest any changes.
What are the Long-term Effects?
The long-term effects of lack of sleep during the first year of life can be slight. As long as your baby gets the proper rest and nutrition, then they shouldn’t have any negative effects. Lack of sleep can cause lack of energy and irritability, but these issues should disappear once your baby has gone through the regression period.
How Will the Regression Affect My Baby?
Your baby may become fussy and irritable during this period, but once they get the proper rest and sleep their mood should improve. Most babies will begin to sleep better at night and may sleep for longer stretches.
Is There Anything Else I Should Know?
It’s completely natural for your baby to go through this period of life. You may feel frustrated or worried that your baby isn’t getting enough sleep. Most babies will return to their normal sleeping habits once they have gone through this period. While it can be stressful for some families, it shouldn’t last long. Be sure to monitor your baby and make sure they are eating well and getting enough sleep.
Is My Baby Gaining Weight?
Your doctor is going to monitor your baby’s weight during each appointment. If your baby is gaining weight at a good rate, then there isn’t much for you to worry about. If your pediatrician notices that your baby is loosing weight or not gaining weight, then it’s time to start worrying.
What Should I Do?
If your baby is gaining weight or staying at a normal weight then there isn’t much for you to worry about. If your baby starts loosing weight, it’s time to start watching what they eat. It could be something they are eating or the frequency in which they eat. It could also be a health issue that you need to have checked out by a medical professional.
What are My Chances of My Baby Going Through This Regression?
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