Developmental Disruptions (aka Sleep Progressions)
Developmentally normal sleep disruptions occur - but here’s the catch: not all babies experience sleep changes at these stages, so there’s no need to stress ahead of time about disruptions that may never happen.
Common ages where developmental sleep changes may occur:
- 4 months: Sleep cycles mature
- 8–9 months: Separation anxiety and mobility
- 12 months: Walking and language development
- 18 months: Emotional growth
- 24 months: Increased independence
These aren’t regressions. They’re progressions.
They’re not caused by “bad habits” they’re a sign that your child’s brain is growing.
Parent tip:
Offer extra connection and flexibility during these phases. Focus on getting sleep for the primary caregiver, and take shifts with a co-parent or trusted family member/friend if needed.
Also, pay attention to the developmental skill your child is working on, and lean into supporting that. For example, if your child is practising pulling to stand, can you offer a surface that’s about half the height of your couch - something they can pull up on and safely lower themselves from?