Final answer:
By 6 months of age, many infants can sleep through the night as they reach various developmental milestones, including improved motor skills and vision, though individual differences can affect their sleep patterns.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to one study, by 6 months of age, most infants are able to sleep through the night. This period in an infant's life is marked by rapid development and growth in various aspects. Motor, sensory, and cognitive abilities evolve significantly during the first year of life. While individual infants may exhibit varied patterns in sleeping and development, they generally start to exhibit a more regular sleeping pattern by this age.
By 6 months, infants have reached several developmental milestones that affect their sleeping patterns. They begin to sit, crawl, and their vision improves. Also, the deciduous teeth start to emerge, which can sometimes affect sleep due to discomfort. However, despite these changes, many infants start consolidating their sleep during the night and may not need to wake up for feedings as frequently.
It is crucial to note that while some infants may sleep through the night at this age, others may still wake up; this can depend on individual differences and circumstances. Parents seeking to understand and support their child's sleep may benefit from knowledge about general developmental milestones but should also be attentive to their infant's unique patterns and needs.