A lot of new parents feel overwhelmed when it comes to sleep training. There are so many different sleep training methods, and it can be hard to know which one is right for your baby. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about sleep training.
We will go over the basics, such as what sleep training is and when you should start. We will also talk about the different sleep training methods, and whether or not you need a sleep consultant.
What is Sleep Training?
Sleep training is a method of teaching your baby how to sleep through the night. There are different sleep training methods, but they all have the same goal: to help your baby learn to sleep independently and self-soothe.
There are a few different things you need to know about sleep training before you start. The first is that it can be difficult. You will need to be patient. Sleep training takes time and there will be some nights when your baby doesn't seem to be making any progress. That’s okay!
The second thing you need to know is that there are different methods of sleep training, and not all of them will work for every baby. There are four main methods: cry it out, gentle and gradual extinction, pick up/put down, and bedtime fading.
- Cry it out: This is the most common method of sleep training. It involves letting your baby cry until they fall asleep on their own. This can be difficult for both you and your baby. It can help them learn to self-soothe.
- Gentle/gradual extinction: This method is similar to cry it out, but you will go in to check on your baby periodically. This can help ease some of the anxiety that comes with sleep training.
- Pick up/put down: This method involves picking up your baby when they cry and then putting them back down when they are calm. This can be difficult to do if your baby is really upset but it can be a good way to gradually train them to sleep through the night.
- Bedtime fading: This method involves slowly moving your baby's bedtime earlier until they are sleeping through the night. This can be a difficult method to stick to because of the strict schedule, but it can be very effective.
Should You Be Sleep Training Your Baby?
There are a lot of different opinions on sleep training. Some people believe that all babies should be sleep trained, while others think it's not necessary. So, should you be sleep training your baby? The answer depends on your individual situation.
Here are some things to consider:
- Your Baby's Age: Most sleep training methods recommend starting when your baby is around six months old. This is because most babies are developmentally ready to learn how to sleep through the night at this age.
- Your Baby's Sleep Habits: If your baby is already a good sleeper, sleep training may not be necessary. On the other hand, if your baby is having trouble sleeping through the night, sleep training may be a good option.
- Your Parenting Style: Some parents prefer to sleep train their babies, while others let their babies adjust to their own schedule. It's up to you to decide what's best for your family.
When Should You Start?
As mentioned earlier, most sleep training methods recommend starting when your baby is around six months old. This is because babies this age are better able to self-soothe and more developmentally ready to sleep through the night.
However, you know your baby best, so trust your gut and do what you think is best for your family. The most important thing is that you start sleep training when you're both ready and comfortable with the process.
If you're not sure whether or not sleep training is right for you, talk to your pediatrician. They can help you decide what's best for your baby.
How Should You Start?
There are a few things you need to do to prepare for sleep training. The first is to make sure your baby is sleeping alone in a crib. This will help them feel more comfortable and independent when they are trying to sleep on their own.
The second thing you need to do is create a bedtime routine. This should be something that is calm and relaxing, such as reading a book or taking a bath. This will help your baby know that it is time for sleep.
The third thing you need to do is set a schedule. You should decide when you want to start sleep training and then stick to that schedule as much as possible. This will help your baby know when it is time for sleep, and it will make the process easier for both of you.
Do You Need a Sleep Consultant?
A sleep consultant is a person who helps parents teach their babies how to sleep through the night. If you're considering sleep training, you may want to consider hiring a sleep consultant. They can help you choose the right sleep training method and provide support throughout the process. Your pediatrician may have some recommendations for local sleep consultants.
Learn More
Sleep training can be a daunting task, but it's important to remember that every baby is different. There are many different sleep training methods, so find one that fits your parenting style and schedule. And don't forget to ask for help if you need it! Talk to your pediatrician or hire a sleep consultant if you need guidance.
If you have any questions about sleep training or are looking for more tips and tricks, be sure to check out Baby Merlin! We offer a variety of sleepsuits and sleep sacks to help your baby get through the night peacefully.
So don't hesitate to reach out - we can help you get your little one sleeping through the night in no time!