As a parent, one of the biggest milestones (and reliefs!) is getting your baby to sleep through the night. Sleep is essential—not just for your baby’s growth and development but also for your sanity and well-being. But let’s be honest: the journey to those uninterrupted hours of sleep isn’t always straightforward. Sleep training can feel overwhelming, especially with so many approaches out there. That’s why we’re here to walk you through it, with tips and guidance to help both you and your little one get the rest you need.
When Is My Baby Ready for Sleep Training?
Every baby is different, but most are ready for some form of sleep training around 4-6 months old. By this age, many babies are developmentally able to sleep for longer stretches at night without needing to eat. If your baby is younger than 4 months, focus on building good sleep habits, such as consistent bedtime routines, rather than formal sleep training.
Not sure if your baby is ready? Chat with your family doctor or pediatrician for personalized guidance.
What Is Sleep Training?
At its core, sleep training is about teaching your baby to fall asleep independently and soothe themselves back to sleep if they wake up during the night. The key is to find an approach that feels right for your family. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution—it’s okay to try different methods and adjust as needed.
You can learn more about how to get your baby to sleep here and understand what’s normal and specific ages.
Popular Sleep Training Methods
Here are a few common approaches to sleep training:
The Ferber Method (Gradual Extinction):
- This involves putting your baby down while they’re drowsy but awake and allowing them to self-soothe.
- You check on them at gradually increasing intervals if they cry, offering comfort without picking them up.
- The idea is to help your baby learn to fall asleep on their own over time.
- This gentle approach involves sitting in a chair near your baby’s crib while they fall asleep.
- Each night, you move the chair farther away until you’re no longer in the room.
- This involves comforting your baby every time they cry—picking them up, rocking, or nursing—until they fall asleep.
- While this approach requires patience and consistency, it’s a good option for parents who prefer minimal crying.
Cry It Out (Extinction):
- This method allows your baby to cry until they fall asleep without intervention.
- While it can be effective, it’s not for everyone. Listen to your instincts and do what feels right for you and your baby.
Building a Strong Sleep Foundation
Regardless of the method you choose, creating a solid sleep foundation is essential. Here’s how to set your baby up for success:
Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine:
Babies thrive on routine. A predictable series of calming activities—such as a bath, a bedtime story, or lullabies—helps signal that it’s time to wind down for the night.
Set the Stage for Sleep:
Keep your baby’s sleep environment calm, dark, and quiet. A white noise machine can help mask household sounds, and a cool room (around 68–72°F) is ideal for sleep.
Stick to Age-Appropriate Sleep Schedules:
Overtired babies often have a harder time falling asleep. Pay attention to your baby’s sleep cues, such as rubbing their eyes or fussiness, and aim to put them down before they become too tired.
Encourage Self-Soothing:
Help your baby learn to self-soothe by giving them a few minutes to settle before intervening. You can start small by waiting just a minute or two before responding to their cries.
Patience Is Key
Sleep training isn’t an overnight fix, and it’s normal for progress to take time. Some nights will be easier than others, but consistency is your best friend. Trust your instincts—no one knows your baby better than you do.
FAQs About Sleep Training
Q: Is it okay to let my baby cry during sleep training?
A: Some methods involve more crying than others, but remember that crying is your baby’s way of communicating. As long as your baby is safe, a little crying during sleep training won’t harm them. Choose a method that you’re comfortable with, and don’t hesitate to check in on them if it feels right.
Q: What if sleep training isn’t working?
A: If you’ve tried sleep training and it doesn’t seem to be working, don’t worry! Every baby is different. You may need to adjust your approach or revisit sleep training in a few weeks. Your family doctor or pediatrician can offer advice tailored to your baby’s specific needs.
Q: Should I sleep train during a growth spurt or illness?
A: It’s best to pause sleep training if your baby is sick or going through a growth spurt. These temporary disruptions can make sleep training more challenging. Once your baby is feeling better, you can resume the process.
You’ve Got This!
Helping your baby learn to sleep through the night is a gift for the whole family. With patience, consistency, and a little trial and error, you’ll find a routine that works for you and your baby. And remember, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you have questions or concerns about sleep training, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for support.
Wishing you restful nights and sweet dreams!