Sleep Schedule for 9 Month Olds
It’s important to establish a sleep schedule for your 9 month old. Babies this age need around 12 hours of sleep every day, and it’s crucial that they get the majority of this at night so they can fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. To help your baby sleep through the night, start by implementing a bedtime routine. This should include a warm bath, some quiet time reading or singing together, and then putting your baby down in their crib when they’re drowsy but not yet asleep. It may take some time and patience to get your baby to sleep through the night, but it will be worth it in the long run!
If you find that your 9 month old is suddenly waking up in the middle of the night or taking shorter naps during the day, it’s likely due to a sleep regression. This is normal and usually nothing to worry about – just know that it won’t last forever! In the meantime, try to stick to your baby’s regular sleep schedule as much as possible and be patient while they adjust back to sleeping through the night.
How to Get Your 9 Month Old On a Schedule
It is important to note that every baby is different and will therefore respond differently to sleep training. That being said, there are some general tips that may be helpful in getting your 9 month old on a schedule.
First, it is important to create a calm and relaxed environment for your baby when it is time for them to sleep. This may include dimming the lights and playing soft music. You will also want to avoid any stimulation prior to their nap or bedtime such as television or active play.
Next, you will want to establish a regular bedtime routine for your baby. This could include a bath, reading a book, or singing a lullaby. Doing the same thing each night will help cue your baby that it is time to sleep.
If your baby is resistant to falling asleep, you may need to start with shorter periods of sleep training such as naps rather than trying to do an entire night at once. You can gradually increase the amount of time as they get more comfortable with sleeping through the night.
It is also important to be aware of potential roadblocks such as teething or illness which can disrupt sleeping patterns. Lastly, know that regressions are common around 4 and 8-9 months old as babies go through developmental leaps which can impact sleep habits.
By following these tips and being patient, you can help your 9 month old develop healthy sleep habits that will last them a lifetime!
What to Expect When Your 9 Month Old Starts Sleeping Through the Night
Up until now, your 9-month-old baby has probably been sleeping in two or three distinct sleep periods during the day and night. But around this age, many babies start to sleep for longer periods at night, and may even start sleeping through the night.
During the day, your 9-month-old’s sleep patterns will probably remain much the same as they have been. Most babies this age still take two or three naps, with the longest nap occurring in the late afternoon. However, some babies may only take one nap a day by this age.
As far as night-time sleep is concerned, you may find that your 9-month-old starts to sleep for longer periods at a stretch. Some babies will even start sleeping through the night (defined as sleeping for a period of six to eight hours without waking) from around this age. However, don’t expect your baby to do this every night – it’s perfectly normal for them to wake up once or twice during the night even at nine months old.
If your baby does start sleeping for longer periods at night, you may find that their daytime naps become shorter as a result. This is perfectly normal – just make sure they’re getting enough daytime sleep overall.
It’s also worth bearing in mind that around this age many babies go through a so-called “sleep regression”, where they suddenly start waking more often at night or taking shorter naps during the day. This is usually just a temporary phase and should last no more than a few weeks.
How to Handle bedtime When Your 9 Month Old Won’t Sleep
It’s bedtime, but your 9 month old just won’t sleep. You’ve tried everything, but nothing seems to work. What can you do?
First, try not to worry. It’s normal for 9 month olds to have trouble sleeping through the night. This is called the “9 month sleep regression.” There are a few things you can do to help your child (and yourself) get through this tough time.
Second, make sure your child is getting enough daytime sleep. A good afternoon nap can make a world of difference come bedtime. If your child is skipping his nap or having trouble sleeping during the day, try to adjust his schedule accordingly.
Third, try making bedtime a little earlier or later. Sometimes all it takes is moving bedtime by 15-30 minutes to make a difference. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find what works best for your family.
Fourth, create a calm and relaxed environment at bedtime. This means no screens (TVs, phones, tablets) in the hour leading up to sleep and no roughhousing during playtime before bed. Stick to quiet activities like reading or listening to soothing music instead.
Finally, be patient and consistent with your child. The 9 month sleep regression won’t last forever and eventually they will (hopefully) start sleeping through the night again!