Postpartum Guide for Couples: Week 16
Happy 4 months! Can you believe how far you and baby have come? This is our last pregnancy and baby email for you (we will eventually extend this past 4 months postpartum...stay tuned). Read below to learn about the 4-month sleep regression and where you can find us for more support.
What’s Going On With Baby
Unfortunately, babies hit sleep regressions every now and then in their first year of life. Four months happens to be one of those times. Here are some things to keep in mind when your little one is going through a sleep regression:
Know that sleep regressions typically happen around 4, 6, 9, and 12 months
Be patient
Stick to a consistent routine
Prioritize naps so that they’re not overly tired at bedtime
Provide comfort if they wake up at night and aim to help them fall back asleep
Avoid overstimulation during the day
Remember, this phase will pass! You may question yourself and think that you’re doing something to throw off baby’s sleep cycle, but that’s usually not the case. Be patient, and soon, they will be sleeping like usual again.
What’s Going On With Mom
We know a sleep regression can be difficult and not only interfere with baby’s sleep but with your sleep too! Try not to be discouraged and keep reminding yourself this is a temporary phase. We recommend doing what you need to do to survive during regressions. Typically babies go back to their normal routines after a week or two. (If that doesn't happen, you may look into the many different methods of sleep training to help your baby sleep at night).
Discuss a plan with your partner to ensure you both get the sleep and time to yourself you need. Don't be afraid to pull in reinforcements!
What’s Going On With Partner
Tummy time is an essential activity for infants as they grow and develop. At 4 months, baby should get between 30-40 minutes of tummy time daily! That doesn’t mean they have to lie on their tummy for 30-40 minutes at once. You can stretch this out into 10-minute increments throughout the day. Because baby will be on their tummy so often, this is an excellent time for you to get down on the ground and interact with baby. This will help keep them distracted and not stuck on the floor alone.
We wish you all the best!
We have LOVED journeying with you throughout your pregnancy and postpartum. Below you'll find links for where you can continue to connect with us. We love hearing from our followers and community, so free to email or DM us anytime!
