Is Sleep Training the Right Choice for Us?

Are you contemplating whether sleep training is the right path for you and your cherished little one? Sleep training can pave the way to improved nighttime rest and extended naps. Parents often inquire about what to expect when embarking on sleep training and whether the timing is suitable for their family. Let’s delve into the details.

The Ideal Age for Sleep Training

Once your beloved child surpasses the age of 4 months (16 weeks), they are developmentally prepared to begin self-soothing.

Look out for these indicators:

• Your baby can bring their hands to their mouth—a crucial skill for self-soothing.

• Your baby is experiencing the 4-month regression, characterized by shorter naps and a tougher time self-soothing, indicating a shift in sleep patterns.

• Your baby should no longer be swaddled or in a Merlin suit. If they are, it’s time to phase them out.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Sleep training demands dedication and isn’t a swift, effortless solution. It’s essential to actively refine your approach to bedtime, nighttime awakenings, early morning risings, and nap times. The consistency of your new routine will aid your baby in becoming an independent sleeper. Expect sleep training to establish a new, consistent schedule with lengthier naps and uninterrupted nighttime sleep within one to two weeks.

Helpful Tips:

• Prioritize sleep training during the initial 1-2 weeks.

• Avoid plans that disrupt the bedtime routine and nighttime schedule.

• If possible, steer clear of lengthy outings during your baby’s nap times.

• Also, concentrate on nap training.

Can I Co-Sleep and Sleep Train?

The straightforward answer is no. Remember, your child wakes up seeking your assistance to return to sleep. Being physically close will hinder their ability to process their emotions and attempt self-soothing, leading to frustration for both you and your baby. For your baby to develop independent sleep skills, it’s crucial to make the significant transition from your bed to their own sleeping space.

Is It Okay to Have Contact Naps?

This largely depends on your objectives and your child’s adaptability and temperament. Some children struggle to grasp why contact naps are sometimes acceptable and sometimes not, while others adjust easily. This isn’t typically something you can train your child to do, as it’s heavily influenced by their personality. Based on my experience, I’ve observed that strong-willed children (like my son) find it challenging to adapt, whereas easygoing children (like my daughter) can manage a contact nap without regressing.

Ultimately, this is something you’ll need to experiment with and assess based on your child’s responses.