Sleep Regression or New Habit? How to Tell the Difference (and What to Do Next)

Is It Just a Sleep Regression—Or a New Habit?

Your baby was sleeping well… and then suddenly, the wake-ups begin. You tell yourself, “It’s just a phase. It’ll pass.” Sometimes, that’s true—developmental leaps, teething, or illness can temporarily disrupt sleep, and things naturally settle. But what if they don’t?

If weeks (or even months) go by and sleep is still a mess, it may be time to ask: Is this still a regression—or has it become a habit?

The Common Myth: “It’s just a regression. Give it time.”

You’ve probably heard it before: “Don’t worry, it’s just a sleep regression. Ride it out.”

And yes—some babies do bounce back on their own. But here’s the catch: in the process of waiting, many parents (understandably) slip into survival mode. Rocking, feeding, co-sleeping—whatever works in the moment.

That’s when temporary sleep disruptions can quietly turn into long-term sleep patterns.

The Reality: Regressions Can Become Habits

Here’s how that shift happens:

1. A regression begins. Your baby starts waking more often or resists bedtime.

2. You adapt (because you're exhausted). You offer more support—rocking, feeding, holding—just to get some rest.

3. Weeks pass... and nothing changes. Your baby now relies on those sleep associations to fall back asleep every time.

   
   

What started as a phase may now be a pattern your baby expects—and needs—to sleep.

Signs It’s More Than Just a Regression

If your baby or toddler needs one (or more) of the following every time they fall asleep, and you feel stuck, chances are you’re dealing with a sleep habit:

• Rocking or holding them until they’re fully asleep

• Feeding at every wake-up (even when they weren’t before)

• Lying beside them until they doze off

• Needing motion (car, stroller, etc.) to sleep

  
  

The good news? You don’t have to keep waiting and hoping for change. You can take small, intentional steps to reset your baby’s sleep habits—without guilt.

How to Get Sleep Back on Track

If you’re in the middle of sleepless nights, you’re not alone. The key is to be proactive:

• Set a consistent bedtime routine

• Gently phase out unsustainable sleep associations

• Teach independent sleep skills so your baby can settle on their own

  
  

These small steps can lead to big changes in how your little one sleeps—and how you feel.

Need More Personalized Support?

If you're feeling overwhelmed or just want someone to walk you through it, we’ve got you. Our Sleep Support Packages are designed to take the guesswork out of sleep training.

We offer:

• Customized sleep plans tailored to your little one's specific needs

• 1-on-1 text support to guide you step-by-step as you implement the plan

• Expert support that gets your little one sleeping through the night—in just 2 weeks

  
  

You don’t have to do this alone. Visit our website to learn more and find the right support package for your family.

Better sleep is possible—and closer than you think. 💛