8 month Sleep Regression (or Progression?): What’s Really Happening with Your Baby’s Sleep

If your baby is suddenly waking every hour at 8 or 9 months, and you’re wondering what’s happened to your sleep—you’re not alone.

You may have heard this phase called the 8 month sleep regression, but I prefer to call it a progression. Even though it feels like things are going backwards, your baby’s brain and body are actually moving forward in amazing ways.

Let’s explore what’s really going on and how you can support your little one (and yourself) during this intense but normal phase.

How the 8 Month Sleep Regression Differs from the 4-Month Regression

At around 4 months, babies experience a biological shift in sleep architecture—their sleep cycles mature, becoming more like an adult’s. This is a well-studied change.

The 8 month sleep regression is different. The shift isn’t in sleep structure—it’s in development. At this age, your baby is hitting major milestones that affect sleep.

Big Milestones, Big Sleep Disruptions

Around 8 months, your baby might be:

• Crawling or pulling to stand

• Practicing babbling or saying first words

• Developing stronger attachment (separation anxiety)

• Eating more solids, which can bring digestive changes

• Possibly teething

That’s a lot for one little human, and all of it can disrupt sleep.

Why Babies Practice New Skills at Night

It can be frustrating, but it’s completely normal. Babies often practice physical and cognitive skills during sleep, because the brain consolidates learning at night.

So if your baby is rolling, babbling, crawling, or standing at 2am, it’s a sign of growth. The best thing you can do is ensure safety, then wait until they signal they need help to return to sleep.

Separation Anxiety Peaks Around Now

You may notice your previously happy baby now cries the moment you leave the room or wakes frequently needing contact.

This is developmentally normal, reflecting a deepening attachment rather than a problem. Offering comfort and reassurance is the key.

Bed-Sharing During the 8 Month Sleep Regression

If frequent wake-ups are exhausting, safe bed-sharing can be a practical solution.

• It doesn’t create “bad habits”—sleep needs change over time.

• Later, when your baby is ready, you can gently transition them back to their own sleep space.

Naps and Fighting Sleep

During this phase, it’s normal for babies to:

• Fight naps that used to be easy

• Need extra help falling asleep

• Prefer contact or motion naps

Supporting sleep flexibly—pram naps, contact naps, or co-sleeping naps—can help your baby get the rest they need.

Solids, Digestive Discomfort, and Sleep

Introducing solids can trigger digestive issues for some babies. If your baby seems windy or unsettled:

• Try gentle tummy massage before bed

• Bicycle legs and tummy circles can relieve discomfort

Teething and Sleep Disruption

Teething may also disrupt sleep. Watch for:

• Red cheeks and drooling

• Sore or swollen gums

• General crankiness

Helpful strategies:

• Cold teethers or chilled foods

• Teething gels or powders

• Pain relief (Calpol/Nurofen) if necessary and recommended by a pharmacist

How Long Will the 8 Month Sleep Regression Last?

Every baby is different:

• Some last a few weeks

• Others stretch over a month, especially with overlapping factors (teething + separation anxiety)

Lean into the phase—know that it is temporary, and sleep will return to normal.

Tips to Support Your Baby (and Yourself)

✔ Let your baby practice skills safely during day and night

✔ Support naps in whatever way works right now

✔ Offer extra comfort at night

✔ Bed-share safely if needed

✔ Delay big transitions until the phase eases

✔ Focus on connection, not correction

Bottom Line

The 8 month sleep regression is challenging, but it’s also full of growth, learning, and bonding. You are not failing, your baby is not broken, and this phase will pass.

Need Extra Support?

My 6–11 Months Sleep Support Course is designed to help you navigate progressions like this with confidence and calm. You’ll learn how to support your baby’s sleep rhythms, ease bedtime struggles, and create a realistic routine for your family.

👉 Explore the course here

FAQ

Q1: What is the 8 month sleep regression? It’s a period where babies may wake more at night, fight naps, or need extra comfort due to developmental milestones like crawling, standing, and separation anxiety.

Q2: How long does the 8 month sleep regression last? It usually lasts a few weeks to over a month, depending on your baby and overlapping factors like teething or separation anxiety.

Q3: Is night-time skill practice normal? Yes. Babies consolidate learning at night, which may include rolling, crawling, standing, or babbling.

Q4: Can bed-sharing help? Yes. Safe bed-sharing can provide rest for both baby and parents, and is temporary until the phase passes.

Q5: Will teething affect sleep? Teething can disrupt sleep differently for each baby. Cold teethers, chilled foods, and pain relief (if needed) can help.

Q6: How can I support naps and night sleep? Support naps in any way that works—pram naps, contact naps, or co-sleeping naps are all okay. Maintain predictable routines and provide extra comfort as needed.