The Various Methods of Sleep Training: Finding What Works for You
Understanding Sleep Training
Sleep training involves teaching your child to fall asleep independently. It's a skill, much like reading or potty training, and requires effort and consistency. Sleep training typically involves helping your child separate from sleep associations or props, such as feeding to sleep, rocking, or using a pacifier. The goal is for your child to learn to self-soothe and fall asleep on their own.
Do All Children Need Sleep Training?
Not all children need sleep training. Some are naturally good sleepers, while others need guidance. If your current method works for your family, there's no need to change it. However, if your child is sleep-deprived or the lack of sleep is causing hardships for the family, sleep training can be a beneficial solution.
Reasons to Sleep Train
Parents might choose to sleep train for two main reasons:
- Child’s Sleep Needs: Ensuring the child gets sufficient sleep to support their development and well-being.
- Parental Well-Being: Addressing sleep deprivation in parents, which can have serious health effects.
Sleep Training Methods
Here are various sleep training methods, from the gentlest to the more intensive:
1. Pick Up/Put Down (PU/PD)
Best for: Newborns up to 12 weeks old. Method:
- Place your baby in their crib/bassinet.
- Let them fuss for a few minutes.
- Pick them up to soothe if they cry, then put them back down before they fall asleep.
- Repeat until they fall asleep on their own.
Pros: Helps create independent sleep skills from an early age. Cons: Can be tiring for new parents.
2. Chair Method
Best for: Babies 12 weeks to 12 months, and toddlers 18 months+. Method:
- Nights 1-3: Sit next to the crib, offering comfort every 5 minutes until asleep.
- Nights 4-6: Move the chair further away and increase intervals to 10 minutes.
- Night 7: Put the baby in the crib, leave the room, and return every 10 minutes if needed.
Pros: Gentle and supportive method. Cons: Takes about 2 weeks and involves some crying.
3. Leave and Check (Ferber Method)
Best for: Babies 12-18 months. Method:
- Put your child in the crib at bedtime and leave the room.
- Return after increasing intervals to offer reassurance (e.g., 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes).
Pros: Flexible and effective. Cons: Requires consistency and can involve significant crying.
4. Cry It Out (CIO)/Extinction
Best for: Parents who can commit to the method. Method:
- Put your child in the crib and do not return, allowing them to cry until they fall asleep.
Pros: Quick results, often within 3 nights. Cons: Difficult to hear your baby cry, requires strong commitment.
What About "No Cry" Sleep Training?
No cry methods aim to minimize crying but can be confusing and take longer (3-6 months) to see progress. These methods involve gradual steps and still involve some level of crying.
Common Sleep Training Errors
- Not Removing All Sleep Props: Keeping a pacifier or other sleep props can hinder progress.
- Lack of Preparation: Have a clear plan and know what to expect.
- Giving In Too Soon: Consistency is key; giving up midway confuses your baby and reinforces crying.
Conclusion
There's no single "right" way to sleep train your child. Each family should choose what works best for them. The key is to be prepared, consistent, and committed to the process. Remember, sleep training is a valuable investment in your child's long-term well-being. If you need guidance or support, schedule a free evaluation call to find the best method for your family and resolve your child’s sleep challenges in about 2 weeks.
Ready to Transform Your Child’s Sleep?
Contact us for a free evaluation call and let us help you find the best sleep training method for your family. Achieve peaceful nights and healthy sleep habits in just a few weeks!
