FAQs: SLEEP TRAINING BASICS
Sleep training is a hot topic in the world of baby and toddler parenting. I've received hundreds of questions about it: What is sleep training? How do I do it? When should I start? What’s the best method? With so much information (and misinformation) from experts, books, Instagram pages, and TikToks, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. So, let’s dive into what sleep training really is and answer some of the most commonly asked questions!
What is Sleep Training?
Sleep training refers to making changes to your child’s sleep patterns with the goal of improving their sleep. This often involves teaching your baby or toddler to fall asleep independently and to self-soothe when they wake up during the night, but sleep training can also simply include making changes to your child’s schedule, routine, and environment to optimize their sleep. The aim is to establish a consistent sleep routine that benefits both the child and the parents.
Benefits of Sleep Training
Improved Sleep Quality: Babies and toddlers who learn to sleep independently tend to sleep longer and more soundly. This uninterrupted sleep is crucial for their growth and development.
Better Parental Sleep: When children sleep better, parents also enjoy more restful nights, leading to improved overall family well-being.
Enhanced Mood and Behavior: Well-rested children are generally happier and exhibit better behavior during the day.
Consistency and Routine: Establishing a sleep routine can create a sense of security and predictability for the child, making bedtime less stressful.
When Should I Sleep Train?
As a general rule, it’s best to start formal sleep training no earlier than 4 months old. At this age, babies start sleeping in more regular sleep cycles (more on this in a upcoming blog,) and are usually developmentally ready to learn self-soothing skills. But remember, it’s never too late to teach your child good sleep habits. Whether your child is a baby, a toddler, or even older, there’s always a way to help them improve their sleep!
How Do I Sleep Train?
This is the big question for most parents and one of the reasons a sleep consultant can be so helpful. Sleep training has gotten a bad reputation because many parents associate it with the Cry It Out or Extinction method, where you put your baby down at night and don't return until morning.
Most parents are relieved when I tell them there are other excellent options for sleep training, and it doesn't just mean letting your baby cry it out. In my view, there are three main types of sleep training methods, each with variations to suit individual children and families:
Extinction or Cry It Out
Leave and Check- like the Ferber method or Sleep Wave from The Happy Sleeper
Stay in the Room- think Pick Up/Put Down, Shush/Pat, or Camping Out
Choosing the best method for your child and family can be confusing, which is where a sleep consultant comes in! At Sleep Solutions by Cara, our goal is to match families with the sleep training methods and strategies that work best for each child, ensuring parents feel comfortable with the new routines and strategies they are implementing.
How Long Does Sleep Training Take?
The duration of sleep training can vary a lot depending on the method you use and your baby's individual needs. Some kiddos might start sleeping better in just a few days, while others could take a few weeks to adjust. The key is to stay consistent and be ready for some ups and downs along the way. Patience and persistence are essential for achieving lasting results.
By understanding the basics of sleep training and finding the best approach for your family, you can help your little one develop healthy sleep habits that benefit everyone. If you need personalized guidance, schedule your free 15-minute discovery call so we can get your family the sleep you deserve!
♡︎ Cara
