What Sleep Regressions Really Are

Sleep Regressions are a common, and overused word in the parenting world. Are they real? YES. But do they affect sleep at any given time? no. 

A regression means: a return to a former or less developed state.

So, your baby doesn't 'unlearn' their sleep skills. Their sleep skills are disrupted by their natural development! Specifically, developmental milestones!

There are periods in time where developmental milestones are SURGING and sleep definitely takes a hit. These time ranges are often the 4 month mark, and the 18-month mark.

The thing about milestones is that your baby wants to master their new skill. So you might find your sleep-trained baby crawling around their crib while it's nap-time...and you're wondering what happened? Aren't you tired? 

They ARE tired, but their body wants to master and practice this new skill to a certain extent before they can take a break!