5 Signs You’re in an Extinction Burst

You’ve started sleep training, and things seemed to be moving in the right direction—until suddenly your baby is crying harder, longer, or waking more often. Don’t panic—this might not mean things are failing. You may simply be in an extinction burst, a very normal (and temporary) stage of sleep training.

Here are five signs you might be experiencing an extinction Burst:

1. Sleep protests get louder or longer

Your baby may cry harder or for a longer stretch than in the first few nights of training.

2. Sleep patterns seem to regress

You might notice more night wakings or extra resistance at bedtime compared to earlier in the week.

3. It happens around the end of week one or the start of week two

This timing is classic—babies begin to realize the changes are here to stay and give one final pushback.

4. Old sleep habits “creep back in”

Your little one may try harder than ever to get you to rock, feed, or bounce them like before.

5. You feel like things are worse, not better

This is the hardest part for parents—it feels like you’ve taken a step backward. In reality, you’re right on track.

What To Do About It

The best response to an extinction burst is:

• Stay consistent—don’t go back to old habits.

• Make up for lost sleep with an earlier bedtime.

• Remember, it’s temporary—once your child realizes the changes are here to stay, sleep usually improves quickly.

  
  

👉 Want the bigger picture? Read our full guide: Sleep Training and the Extinction Burst: What Every Parent Should Know.

📞 If you’d like one-on-one support navigating this stage, schedule a complimentary consultation. I’ll help you create a plan and walk you through the tough nights—so you don’t give up right before the breakthrough.

Jennie Clarke  

Certified Child Sleep Consultant and Founder

Smart Night Sleep

**Based out of Orlando, Florida, but works remotely with families around the world.