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What Is Sleep Training?

Ollie Lane

April 26, 2024

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Understanding Sleep Training

Sleep training is the process of helping a baby learn to fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. At its core, it involves establishing a routine and employing various methods to encourage independent sleep. For many new parents, sleep training is a crucial step in developing a healthy sleep pattern for their child, which can also result in improved sleep for the parents.

Foundations of Sleep Training

The Basics of Infant Sleep

Before diving into sleep training methods, it’s important to understand how sleep works for infants. Newborns have different sleep cycles than adults and older children. They sleep in shorter stretches because they need to eat more frequently. As babies grow, their sleep patterns start to change, and by about four to six months of age, many can sleep for longer periods at night.

When to Start Sleep Training

The ideal time to start sleep training can vary with each child. Some experts suggest that by the time a baby is about four to six months old, they may be ready for sleep training since their sleeping and feeding schedules have become more predictable. However, it is essential to consult with a pediatrician before starting sleep training to ensure it’s the right time for the individual baby.

Methods of Sleep Training

The Cry It Out (CIO) Method

One of the most talked-about sleep training methods is the Cry It Out approach, also known as the Ferber method. In this method, parents put their baby to bed when they are drowsy but awake. After saying goodnight, the parents leave the room and do not return for pre-set intervals, even if the baby begins to cry. Gradually, these intervals increase, allowing the baby to self-soothe and fall asleep on their own. While this method can be effective for some, it’s not the right choice for every family, as it can be emotionally challenging for both the baby and the parents.

The No-Tears Method

Opposite to the CIO technique is the No-Tears approach, which emphasizes a more gradual change in sleep habits. The key is to comfort the baby whenever they cry but to do so with as little intervention as necessary – such as patting them instead of picking them up. Eventually, the idea is to minimize parental involvement incrementally until the baby learns to soothe themselves to sleep.

The Chair Method

The Chair Method is a middle ground between the Cry It Out and No-Tears methods. Parents start by sitting in a chair next to the crib until the baby falls asleep and then move the chair further away from the crib each night. This continues until the parent is outside the room, and the baby can fall asleep independently.

Pick Up, Put Down Method

Another gentle method is the ‘Pick Up, Put Down’ approach where the parent comforts the baby by picking them up when they cry but puts them right back down once they’ve calmed. This method can be repeated until the baby falls asleep without needing to be held.

Creating a Conducive Sleep Environment

A conducive sleep environment is a cornerstone of successful sleep training. This involves a cool, quiet, and dimly lit room. A consistent bedtime routine is also crucial as it signals to the baby that it’s time to sleep. This routine can include a warm bath, a book, and a lullaby before bed. Ensuring the baby is dressed comfortably and has a clean diaper also helps to minimize disruptions.

Addressing Potential Challenges

Teething and Illness

Teething and sickness can disrupt sleep patterns, and during these times, it’s often necessary to pause sleep training. It’s essential to prioritize the baby’s comfort and consult with a healthcare professional if there are any concerns about the baby’s health.

Developmental Milestones

As babies grow, they reach various developmental milestones that can affect their sleep. Learning to crawl or stand can sometimes lead to temporary sleep regression, as babies want to practice these new skills. During these phases, it can be helpful to provide extra practice time during the day for these skills so that nighttime is still for sleeping.

Travel and Changes in Routine

Travel or changes in routine can result in temporary setbacks in sleep training. It’s helpful to maintain as much of the baby’s sleep routine as possible during these times to ensure continuity and help the baby adjust.

Maintaining Consistency

Consistency is vital in sleep training. Sticking to a set bedtime and routine as closely as possible every night will help reinforce the baby’s sleep habits. This consistency gives the baby the security of knowing what to expect, which can make it easier for them to fall asleep on their own.

Navigating Sleep Training as a Family

It’s essential for parents to be on the same page when it comes to sleep training. Discussing and agreeing on a method and approach before starting will help maintain consistency. Additionally, it’s critical that caregivers and other family members are aware of the sleep training methods being used to provide a united approach to the baby’s sleep.

Finishing Thoughts

Sleep training is a personalized journey for each family and what works for one baby might not work for another. It requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to adapt as needed. The goal of sleep training isn’t just to create a routine for the baby but also to promote healthy sleep habits that can last a lifetime. It’s always recommended to consult with a pediatrician before beginning sleep training to ensure that it is an appropriate choice for your baby’s development and health. Remember, every child is unique, and as such, the approach to sleep training should be tailored to fit the individual needs of the child and the family.